Students often worry that taking the SAT test too many times will impact their chances of admission. At nearly 5 hours to administer, it’s a pain in the you-know-what to take the test more than once, but the reality is you can take it 100 times and it won’t even matter. Your focus should be on achieving the highest score possible. Here’s why…
Can You Take the SAT Test Too Many Times?(transcript)
Karl Schellscheidt: Kids sometimes ask me, “Is it bad if you take the SAT too many times?” The answer is no. You can’t take it too many times. You take it as many times as you need to get the score that you deserve. There are a lot of reasons you can do poorly on a given day. You could have gotten a bad night’s sleep. You could be sitting next to a kid with a cold who’s sneezing or coughing the whole test and it distracts you and throws you off and you don’t maximize your score on that day.
College admissions people are overworked and underpaid. Trust me, they’re not going to waste time sitting around talking about why you got what on a given test date. They’re just going to look at your best scores and that’s the end of it. So take the SATs as many times as you need to, to get the score that you deserve that will get you into the college of your choice.
Karl Schellscheidt
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August 4th, 2006 at 7:36 am
Wow! I like your style of getting straight to the point. What practical advise would you give for students who are either not motivated enough or simply not trained to get a reasonably high score for college admission?
August 4th, 2006 at 10:18 am
I am just a freshman how do I find out what test score levels are needed for each college to get in. I want to go to a good school like Harvard, Princeton or Cornell.
cool site!
August 4th, 2006 at 12:26 pm
Justin,
I find that for most kids, their lack of motivation comes from their lack of confidence. We all tend to be more motivated to do the things that come easily. Most kids simply need to get started. Once they do, they will find that they are smarter than they thought. In addition, with the proper guidance, they will see that the test is not really that hard. Finally, college and universities look for improvement, not just perfection.
Jeri,
I would go to the reference section of a big bookstore and look for a guide to colleges and universities. You don’t have to buy the book, just look up information on the schools that interest you most. Good luck. You can’t go wrong with Harvard, Princeton or Cornell.
October 12th, 2007 at 2:34 pm
My son wants to start taking the SAT this year. He is only in 7th grade. But, if it doesn’t matter how many times you take it, then that is ok right?
I thought it was a good idea because the more comfortable, I think the better.
What are your thoughts on this?
Thank you,
Audrey kernan
October 12th, 2007 at 11:53 pm
Dear Audrey,
I think it’s great that your son wants to start taking the SAT this year. However, unless he is applying for something like the Johns Hopkins summer program (which requires the submission of an SAT score), I would not bother with the real test yet. I don’t think he will gain much from the “real” test experience. What’s most important at his age is that he begin learning the content and developing the skills that are required to do well on the SAT when he takes it in high school. This, in my opinion, can be accomplished simply through diligence in school. If he wants to complete work that is specifically geared toward the SAT, I recommend that he take practice tests from The Official SAT Study Guide. ePrep’s free PSAT course is another good option.
October 23rd, 2007 at 11:27 pm
i am in 10th grade and i really want to get into Princeton but i am scared that my sat scores wont be good enough. i am envolved in many sports and ive done many student study programs in different countries. will that help my chances of getting into Princeton?
October 24th, 2007 at 9:33 am
Matt,
As far as SAT scores go, let me tell you a true story. A few years back, I met a girl who scored in the mid to high 400s on each SAT subject area (fyi, there was only math and verbal back then). She was distressed because, like you, her goal was Princeton and she knew that 400’s were not going to cut it. I convinced her that if she worked hard, her scores would improve. She is currently a senior at Princeton.
As far as extracurricular activities go, you should definitely focus on one or two. As ePrep guest expert Seamus Malin says in one of his video blogs, “Colleges are looking for well-lopsided students, not necessarily those who are merely well-rounded.” My advice is to figure out what you really like to do, and find a way to excell at it.
I hope my advice helps. Please do not hesitate to submit more questions/comments.
October 27th, 2007 at 10:21 pm
I am a senior studying in Toronto. I will be taking SAT tests (either subjects or reasoning) in November and December. I have trouble with deciding what I should take. I already took Maths Level 1 and 2, and American History and originally I planned to take Physics, but most of the curriculum is not covered in the Toronto physics program and thus I do not feel confident in taking Physics. I want to take the reasoning one again in decemeber, but it’s already my fourth time! As you mentioned above, it does not really matter how many times we take. So should I just not take Physics (since I am expecting a bad mark)and take reasoning once more?
THANKS!
October 28th, 2007 at 2:29 pm
Jennifer,
Many schools require two SAT subject test. Thus, you should be good to go with American History and one of the two maths. You should check with the colleges on your list, however, just to make sure. If you find that it is not necessary to take another subject test, scrap the Physics (especially if you don’t feel confindent about your chances of earning a high score).
I once tutored a girl who took the reasoning test 6 times. She is currently a junior at Dartmouth College. (It was not until December of senior year that she scored her best.) In other words, feel free to take the reasoning test until you have reached what you think is a maximum score.
I hope this advice helps. Please let me known what you decide and how things go.
October 28th, 2007 at 6:38 pm
Thanks very much! I checked all schools on my list and they all only require two subject tests.
November 14th, 2007 at 11:22 pm
Hey! I’m a junior and am going to be taking the test in December…however I heard from my friend that December is a really bad time to take the test because a lot of seniors are taking it because it’s their last available opportunity. Apparently, she said because there are so many people taking it, the curve could either be really good or really bad, so it’s a high risk situation. However, I’ve been searching the internet and cannot find any facts supporting that statement. Is this a myth?! Is there a best month to take the SAT?
November 15th, 2007 at 7:48 am
Rebecca,
With regard to the “curve,” December and January are actually the best times to take the test. Yes, there are a lot of seniors who take the test in December and January, but think about it — they are the low performing seniors who have not yet gotten the scores they want or need. The academically highest functioning seniors got the scores they needed last spring or early this fall. Many of them are applying early and, thus, are finished with the SAT.
If you are a junior who is ready to take the test now, you might as well compete with the lingering seniors in December or January. Good luck!
November 29th, 2007 at 6:17 pm
I am a sophomore and I am thinking about taking the SAT. I want
to know how many times per month is the SAT given? As a
sophomore, I am not as prepared as juniors and seniors who are
taking the the test now. If I recieve a bad score, and within the
next two years i recieve better grades. Will they take account
of the test I take this year?
November 30th, 2007 at 10:23 am
Raheel,
If I were you, I would simply wait until junior year to take the SAT for the first time. There is not much to gain by taking it as a sophomore. If you want to start getting ready now, that’s great. Continue to work hard in school, read widely, and build your vocabulary. If you want to do some SAT-specific work, take practice tests for now. ePrep Express is currently being offered free. I hope you take advantage of the opportunity.
By the way, while most colleges consider only your best SAT scores, you should know that all of your scores will be sent to all of the colleges on your final list.
November 30th, 2007 at 10:54 pm
Is there any tuth to the thought that taking the ACT or SAT when a greater number of studetns are taking it — like May or June, rather than January when many “together” brainiacs are taking it, ones scores (assuming one scores high to begin with) will be higher because they are judged against average last minute Joes, rather than “with it” students?
December 1st, 2007 at 10:03 am
Susan,
Please see my November 15th comment to Rebecca above. It doesn’t have so much to do with the “number” of students taking the test on a given day; it has more to do with the “quality” or “talent” of the testing pool.
December 2nd, 2007 at 11:25 am
Greetings! I have a question.
Currently, I am a senior and already applied early to Johns Hopkins Univ.. However, the thing
that is bothering me is my SAT reasoning score. I don’t have a stellar SAT score but I did take 4 SAT
subject tests, in which I got 800s. So do you think that my SAT subject test scores will cover up my
mediocre SAT score (2020)?
By the way, I took the December SAT yesterday.
December 2nd, 2007 at 1:27 pm
Mark,
Great job. I am very impressed with your SAT subject test performance. I think the admissions officers at Hopkins will be impressed as well. Let me know how the December test went, when you get your scores back. I would like to hear. By the way, 2020 is not too shabby
In case I have not made myself clear, I do think that your perfect SAT subject tests mitigate your “mediocre” SAT reasoning score.
December 2nd, 2007 at 6:49 pm
Thank you very much for your response!!
I’ll gladly let you know how the test when I get my scores back!
December 2nd, 2007 at 6:50 pm
“I’ll gladly let you know how the test when went I get my scores back!”
December 2nd, 2007 at 6:52 pm
Wow, sorry Mr. Karl!
I’m keep making silly mistakes! I was trying to type “I’ll gladly let you know how the test went when I get my scores back!”
By the way, this is a very cool site!
December 2nd, 2007 at 10:19 pm
No worries, Mark. I won’t mind your typos, if you don’t mind mine
Thanks for your kind words about the site. I look forward to hearing from you again. In the meantime, take care and keep studying hard.
December 20th, 2007 at 5:28 am
I just checked my SAT score. I got 2170! This tells me that your video-clips did REALLY help me a lot!
BTW, I got accepted into JHU through ED plan!
You were right!! Thanks Karl!
December 20th, 2007 at 7:46 am
Awesome, Mark. I am very happy for you. The valedictorian from my high school went to JHU. He now heads up the Civil Rights Division of the U.S. Department of Justice. (He was appointed by President Bush a couple of years ago.) Hopkins will put you on an amazing career track as well. I’m sure of it. It must be nice to have it all figured out in December. Now you can really enjoy the holidays. Congratulations again.
December 22nd, 2007 at 1:27 pm
Thanks again, Karl!
Yes, I feel so relaxed now! However, I eventually have to prepare for college. But before that, I have to tell lower classmen to take advantage of this wonderful site!
December 27th, 2007 at 1:34 am
What is a good SAT score for a hispanic applying to the Ivy Leagues? Right now i have a 1980 and I am retaking them in January after having read that the amount of times that one takes the test is not frowned upon by universities.
December 30th, 2007 at 5:20 pm
David,
I just returned from a holiday vacation. I will try to get you an answer by Wednesday. (I may have to do a little research.) In the meantime, have a happy new year.
January 2nd, 2008 at 9:04 am
David,
Here is a link to a College Board report that may be of interest to you:
http://www.collegeboard.com/prod_downloads/about/news_info/cbsenior/yr2007/national-report.pdf
Essentially, your score of 1980 is likely to put you in the high 90th percentile among Hispanic males. This is great. The tables, however, do not offer statistics on Hispanic males applying to Ivy League universities. My gut tells me that you should do what you can to break 2000 (or even 2100 or 2200), since you are so close already. The first person to finish all of ePrep’s 8 tests went up 450 points. While you are less than 450 from a perfect score, and the last points are the hardest to get, you may want to seriously consider using an ePrep for the SAT product to increase your chances of breaking into the 2000s.
Please do not hesitate to send follow-up questions. Good luck. You have a lot to be proud of already, by the way.
January 16th, 2008 at 11:02 pm
Thanks Karl. I decided not to sign up for the January SATs. However, I did some research and found that many top universities will accept hispanics with slightly lower SATs if they have good credentials and a relatively low socioeconomic status? Is this true? I know acceptance to the Ivy Leagues can be quite random.
January 17th, 2008 at 8:45 am
David,
I agree that top colleges seriously consider Hispanic applicants with “good credentials.” I do not, however, believe that “low socioeconomic status” provides an advantage. That’s not to say that a low socioeconomic status cannot lead to life experiences that people in admissions value. I just don’t think that socioeconomic status alone makes a difference.
I also agree with your comment regarding the seemingly random nature of Ivy League admissions. I know of a girl whose two older sisters went to Dartmouth. Dartmouth rejected her, . . . so she had to settle for Princeton. Personally, I was rejected by Columbia and admitted by Princeton. Go figure.
January 23rd, 2008 at 10:27 pm
Mr. Schellscheidt,
Is it not true that some colleges average your scores if you
take it 3 or more times?
Thank you.
January 24th, 2008 at 9:25 am
Sue,
Most colleges will take your highest scores. For example, if your January scores are Math 600, CR 650, and Writing 580, and your May scores are Math 550, CR 700, and Writing 630, colleges will consider your overall score to be 1930 (Math 600, CR 700, and Writing 630).
While some colleges do not even consider the Writing score, others are averaging it with the Critical Reading. As you create and refine your college list, you should contact individual colleges to learn about their SAT score policies. It is not inappropriate to ask.
January 24th, 2008 at 7:35 pm
I apologize in advance for the length of this e-mail. Sophomore year my son’s SAT reasoning score was 1900. He’s interested in MIT and has worked hard at taking more advanced classes since, including Algebra 2, Geometry and Writing Composition 3.He is homeschooled, and is currently taking Community College classes in College Math and Chemistry, which are going great so far. He’s planning to take physics and calculus there next year. So, we’re trying to decide when and which tests to take. MIT requires two subject tests, 1 in Math and 1 in science, as well as the SAT reasoning or ACT plus writing. We’re considering the chemistry subject test in May, along with either Math 1 or 2. Then take the SAT reasoning again in December, which will be his senior year. Can the SAT 2 tests be re-taken like SAT reasoning if the score isn’t as high as he’d like? Also, do you have a recommendation regarding which Math subject test he should take? Also, should we take them very early in the year so that he can re-take if he isn’t happy with his score?
January 24th, 2008 at 7:52 pm
Kim,
Sounds like your son is an unusually motivated student. You must be very proud.
If he wants to get into MIT, he should most certainly take the Level II SAT Math Subject Test. The Level II was designed for kids who are serious about math and science. (Almost every other MIT applicant in your son’s grade will be taking Level II. He will be at a disadvantage, if he relies on the Level I to fulfill MIT’s SAT Subject Test requirement.)
Yes, he can retake SAT Subject Tests, if he is not happy with his scores.
I would not let him wait until December of senior year to take the SAT reasoning test again. In the event that he has an off day, his last chance would be the January administration. That’s cutting it close, if you ask me.
I hope I answered at least some of your questions sufficiently. Please do not hesitate to send follow-up ones. Good luck and I hope to hear from you soon.
January 27th, 2008 at 7:41 pm
I frequently hear that after your third time of taking the SAT your scores begin being averaged?
Is this true?
January 28th, 2008 at 8:25 am
Taylor,
While every school is entited to establish it own policy regarding the interpretation of SAT scores, I do not think it is common practice for schools to average scores. It is more common for schools to simply consider your highest combination. (See my January 24th comment to Sue above.)
That being said, if you have a college list, there’s nothing inappropriate about contacting the schools and asking about their policies with regard to SAT scores. Good luck.
January 30th, 2008 at 11:48 pm
Thank you!
February 16th, 2008 at 12:04 am
This seems to be a cool website. I have a couple questions that I couldn’t find answers to elsewhere though.
I just took the SAT in January, got a 2150, in which I’m really disappointed. Everyone is telling me it’s actually a great score, but I got a 720 on the Critical Reading, a 760 on the Math, but only a 670 on the Writing. The only reason I messed up the writing so bad is that I didn’t finish my essay. I got 73/80 points on the multiple choice part, but only 6/12 points on the essay. I would recommend to anyone that reads this that you take a watch. I was going to take one, but upon searching my house, discovered that we all rely too heavily on our cell phones and no one in my family possesses a wristwatch. If you’re like this, I would suggest going out to Walmart and buying a cheap one. I had no clue how much time I had remaining, and was stopped midsentence, and due to my personal code of ethics, didn’t work on the essay portion after completing other portions as I saw others in the room do.
Anyways, I know I can do better if I take the test again, and I’ve heard there are limits as to how often you can take them, like once per 6 months or something like that, but I’m unable to find exactly what that limit is, and I’m hoping you can help me.
Also, I’m wondering if you know of any scholarships other than contest scholarships for a white heterosexual middle-class male. I am extremely interested in attending MIT, but my scores aren’t extremely exceptional, and my family can’t really afford for me to go there, and I’m not sure I want to leave college $200000 in debt.
February 16th, 2008 at 12:35 pm
Dennis,
–Thanks for the advice on timing.
–There is no limit on the number of times you can take the SAT in a given time period.
–We recently posted some information on scholarships. Here is the link:
http://blog.eprep.com/2007/11/20/weird-and-wacky-scholarships
Weird and wacky scholarships aside, you should know that a lot of schools provide students with scholarship money simply for high SAT scores. Unfortunately, I don’t think MIT is one of them.
–Good luck with your search. Free free to post a follow-up comment soon.
February 20th, 2008 at 5:41 pm
I’m a sophomore and have excellent grades, but tend not to score too well on standardized tests. (PSAT 83rd percentile). I would like to go to an Ivy league school. When would you recommend that I take the SAT for the first time and Should I take the free Kaplan course that is being offered at my school this year?
February 21st, 2008 at 8:20 am
James,
First of all, 83rd percentile on the PSAT is very good. Congratulations.
That being said, you may need a higher percentile on the SAT to get into an Ivy League school.
If I were you, I would take the PSAT again in October and the SAT in December.
You should at least try the free course that your school is offering. If you don’t like it, you can always drop out.
What were your PSAT subscores or percentiles, by the way? I’m curious to hear how you did in the different subject areas. Were they all around the 83rd percentile, or was there significant disparity? Again, just curious. Talk to you soon.
February 21st, 2008 at 3:07 pm
thanks for your response. PSAT subscores were:
Critical reading 50 (75th percentile)
Math 62 (94th percentile)
Writing skills 60 (94th percentile)
Selection Index 172 (83rd percentile)
What study methods or guides do you recommend and
when is it best to start working on them?
February 21st, 2008 at 6:25 pm
James,
I would get started on CR now. In my experience, its the one that takes the longest and the most effort to improve. (It also happens to be the most rewarding and empowering, by the way.) With regard to the Math and Writing, I would simply stay diligent in school. In other works, keep doing what you’re supposed to do in school.
Here is my advice:
Start with ePrep Express, it is free and will give you access to WordSmith. Use WordSmith to start building your vocabulary. Over the summer, read a lot, looking up the words you don’t know along the way. I would also begin doing practice tests in all three subject areas over the summer. If you can find more free options, terrific. If you cannot, you may want to seriously consider making an investment in the Standard Edition of ePrep for the SAT. The Standard Edition’s four tests will likely be enough to get you ready for both the PSAT in October and the SAT in December.
Good luck. Hope to hear from you again soon.
February 26th, 2008 at 5:54 pm
Can an adult who has graduated college is older than 40 years and owns a SAT prep business take the test? Can that person have their employees take the test…as many times as they want?
This situation acually exists.
Thank you for your reply.
February 26th, 2008 at 6:20 pm
Bettina,
I know of many private tutors who are in the habit of taking the SAT a few times a year. Some of them are certainly over the age of 40 and they all have college degrees.
If private tutors can do it, I don’t see what would stop people from test prep companies.
I guess the College Board doesn’t have much confidence in the average adult’s ability to memorize questions, tables, graphs, reading passages, etc.
I’m not sure how long a test stays “live” after an administration. I’ll ask around for an answer and let you know.
March 2nd, 2008 at 8:13 am
I have a daughter in the 8th Grade who is currently in the 12th Grade Level. She has taken Pre-Calculus, American and British Literature, Spanish V, Biology and Physics, 12th Grade English and many other courses many other courses. Would you recommend that she take the SAT? If so, what would be her next step after taking the SAT to being admitted into a college program? Thanks for your advice.
March 2nd, 2008 at 2:41 pm
Maggie,
Wow! Your daughter sounds like a pretty incredible kid. Since it seems like she’s already taken all the classes she needs to do well on the SAT, I can’t think of a reason why she shouldn’t take it.
After taking the SAT, she’d have the option of applying to the college of her choice. I do, however, want to add a story about a close friend of mine:
He entered Princeton as a 14-year-old. Life on campus was miserable for him; none of his classmates were particularly interested in socializing with a “little kid.” While he excelled academically, his social experience was so bad that he decided to live at home and commute from Manhattan after freshman year. (His mother put him on a public bus at 5:30 every morning and he would not arrive home until about 11:00 at night.) Needless to say, he quickly began to hate commuting as well. His solution: load up on classes and finish college as quickly as possible. He ultimately graduated from Princeton with honors at the ripe old age of 17. By the time he was 22, he had earned to advanced degrees from Harvard.
While my friend has always done well academically, I know that he regrets leaving his social peers behind. Thus, my advice, which I give humbly to another parent, is that, if your daughter wants to move ahead and she is happying doing so, support her any way you can. If, on the other hand, she wants time to simply play and socialize, I would support her in that decision as well.
Good luck. Hope to hear from you again soon.
March 3rd, 2008 at 11:01 am
I am a junior who needs your advice.
As an international student studying in the States, I am aiming for Stanfor U and UPenn.
I took my first SAT in my sophomore year to see what the SAT is like.
(I did not know about canceling score back then…)
I got a score of 1900; I have studied hard(?) since then.
I just took my second SAT test two days ago.
I was pretty confident, but i failed to manage time well… (ughh!!)
I still remember problems that I could have gotten right… they are stuck in my head.
And, I am pretty sure that the score would be between 2000 ~ 2200-if i get really lucky and get all the problems that i had to ruch to solve right
I wonder if i have to cancel this test score….
Even though I’m pleased to read your article, I’m still really worried that colleges will look at all my scores and they will impact my application process negatively.
Thank you for your advice.
March 3rd, 2008 at 11:07 am
the thing is that I was hoping to get a score between 2200-2350 for sure..
and I am sure that this test i just took will not give me a score that can satisfy me and assure a successful application process in the future…….
if i am sure that i’m not going to get a score that I want to have,
is it better to cancel it?
March 3rd, 2008 at 11:13 am
Joon,
I definitely understand your concern. Most colleges, however, will consider only your highest combination. Admission officers are overworked; they simply don’t have the time to disect and discuss each applicant’s SAT history. (Not to mention that doing so would be a misguided effort.)
That being said, if you think you failed to reach your maximum potential in each of the three subject areas, you might as well cancel your March 1st scores. If you think you may have “nailed” at least one of the three sections, however, I encourage you to keep your March 1st scores.
Finally, you always have the option of contacting Stanford and UPenn to ask about their SAT score policies. (I went to UPenn for law school, by the way. It is truly a top-notch university.)
Good luck. Let me know what decide.
March 20th, 2008 at 4:57 pm
Hi Karl,
I just got my SAT scores back today and I got a 2040.
740-Math
650-Critical Reading
650-Writing
The first time I took the SAT’s I got an 1830.
650-Math
590-Critical Reading
590-Writing
I really want to go to one of the great schools for college(Princeton,
Harvard, Yale). It’s great news that colleges don’t really care how many
times you take it, but what runs through their minds as they
see my standardized scores? Do you think that if I raised by score another
210 points, to a 2250, it would really raise my chances? Should I worry
about the writing section because most schools don’t report that in their
statistics? By the way, I’m a junior.
I would really appreciate a reply. Thanks!
March 25th, 2008 at 5:43 pm
SunDeep,
Sorry for the delayed response. I somehow did not notice your comment when it was posted.
If you can raise your score another 210, you will definitely improve your chances of admission. I would not neglect the writing section, however. Preparing for it will help improve your writing skills, which are clearly important in college.
You should spend as much time as you can over the summer reading and building what the College Board calls “a large and varied working vocabulary.” You’re only a few questions away from getting into the 700s.
As far as math goes, you need to push yourself. If you can get a 740, you can get an 800 with some extra practice. If you fail and get a 790 or 780, you’ll still be better off.
Good luck.
March 29th, 2008 at 7:25 pm
Hey Karl,
I’ve taken the SAT twice. The first time, I got an 1810, and the second time I got a 2070 (740M 660CR 670W). I have a weighted GPA of 4.32, (3.8 unweighted), have played Ice Hockey for 12 years, am on student council, participate in Model UN (recently winning at Berkeley) and I founded (and am currently president of) two clubs on our campus, operation save darfur and the junior statesmen of america.
My question is, should I take the SAT again? Or should I take the ACT, or both?
I want to go to apply at: UCLA, Berkeley, USC, Stanford, Columbia, Harvard, MIT, NYU, Georgetown
Advice? Thanks
March 30th, 2008 at 2:00 pm
Michael,
What? No Princeton. (Just joking. Your list is impressive.)
How good are you at hockey? In other words, are you being recruited? If so, you will likely get in with your current scores. If not, I would take the SAT again, instead of the ACT.
The math score is awesome. With a little more practice, and luck, however, you might be able to get the 800. You might as well go for it.
With some practice you should be able to get the writing into the 700s. The critical reading is a bit tougher to improve on, but then again, you do have the whole summer to build your vocabulary and read widely.
The bottomline is this: Since you will likely wind up at a very challenging college, you might as will work on your vocabulary, reading skills, and writing skills now. They’ll help you score higher on the SAT and you’re going to need them in order to excel at the next level. I, for one, have never regretted investing in my own education.
I hope this advice helps. Good luck. Let me know what you decide, if you get a chance.
April 2nd, 2008 at 9:47 am
Hello, I am currently a junior in high school,
and i need advice.
I am planning to take the SATs on May, and maybe in June.
I am very nervous because for I know I haven’t done so much
to prepare for the test, because of my busy schedule.
I am currently taking three AP classes (AP English III,
AP Psychology, and AP European History)and two honors courses,
so I will also be taking AP exams sometime during May.
I want to apply to a number of schools (NYU, Berkeley, UCLA,
John Hopkins, Dartmouth, Stanford, Harvard, and
UPenn.), but I am worried that my grades may not
up to par. I read this at the NYU website:
“Is it better to get a “B” in an honors or AP course
or an “A” in a regular course? The answer, of course,
is that it’s better to get an “A” in the honors or AP course!
The fact is that our admitted applicants do get
the best grades in the toughest courses.)”
Recently, I have gotten a B in U.S. History Honors,
AP European History, and AP English.
However, this is only my third quarter grade,
not my semester grade, so there is still a chance that
i might get an A if i do well during fourth quarter
because they average the two grades, and the average
will be what they put on my transcript.
On the chance that I do not earn an A, however,
I would like to know the chances of me being admitted.
I have heard that a senior in my school got accepted into NYU,
even though she’s gotten B’s and C’s before.
Some say it was because she got extremely high scores on the
SATs. Does this mean that SAT scores are placed with maybe
more importance than grades?
I’ve also heard that if you’ve taken the SATs more than once,
you mix your scores up, so you that you can get the highest
SAT score possible.
“…you can mix and match your scores (SAT only, NOT ACT)
so that if you took the SAT three times and got:
English- 800 Math- 600 Reading- 600
English- 700 Math- 740 Reading- 800
English- 640 Math- 780 Reading- 700
When colleges look at your scores,
they will count your final score as 800, 780, 800 (2380!).”
Is this true?
And does participating in various extra curricular activities
and organizations significantly increase chances of being
admitted? I have participated in Student Council,
was a member of Mock Trial for 2 years (I am not a member now),
played on the tennis team (i no longer play), and
am in NHS. However, I have not held a leadership position
in any of these.
I would also appreciate some advice also on how to handle
the AP tests I will be taking
(it seems very overwhelming right now).
thanks.
April 3rd, 2008 at 7:40 am
Shermaine,
Wow, you seem to have a lot going on and a lot on your mind.
Yes, most colleges will take your highest SAT combination. In other words, the final SAT score of the student in your example above would be 2380.
Thus, in preparing for the May SAT, I encourage you to prepare in earnest for only one of the three subject areas. (I’m afraid that if you try to prepare for all three, you will spread yourself too thin and underperform in each.)
It is a good sign that someone from your high school got into NYU before you. Ask your guidance counselor to give you statistics alums who were recently admitted to the schools on your list. See how you compare with them. Doing so will give you a good sense of your chances of being admitted by those schools.
The advice to “get an A in the honors or AP course” may sound like a cheeky response, but there is some valuable advice in that exhortation. Most kids are capable of doing so much better than they think. Push yourself. You’ll be surprised at what you can achieve.
As far as extracurricular activities go, it’s a good idea to excel at something you really like. Most colleges value students who show a deep and committed passion for something. What that “something” is doesn’t really matter.
I hope I answered at least some of your questions. You seem to be a very conscientious student. Like your conscience guide you and remember, college is not the end-all-be-all. You have a lifetime of learning and self-improvement ahead of you.
Good luck. Hope to hear from you again soon.
April 21st, 2008 at 7:53 pm
Hi,
I’m a sophmore/Junior at a High School in Texas.
I get 85-97s in all my classes and my only extracurricular activity is a ecology club at our school.
I wantto get into Berkeley or UCLA but i really don’t know if i can make it
based on my schooling and SAT scores.
As some people say, SAT scores don’t especially matter to colleges.
I was just wondering if there is any hope or if i should re-think my college choices.
Thank You,
Natalie.
April 21st, 2008 at 7:55 pm
Hi,
I’m a sophmore/Junior at a High School in Texas.
I get 85-97s in all my classes and my only extracurricular activity is a ecology club at our school.
However I am in pretty much all Pre-AP, AP, or Dual Credit classes.
I skipped 8th grade and I’m graduating early.
Which means I will be 15 when i graduate.
I want to get into Berkeley or UCLA but i really don’t know if i can make it
based on my schooling and SAT scores.
As some people say, SAT scores don’t especially matter to colleges.
I was just wondering if there is any hope or if i should re-think my college choices.
Thank You,
Natalie.
April 21st, 2008 at 8:23 pm
Also, this may be an odd question but, can you take the PSATs after you have taken the SATs?
April 23rd, 2008 at 7:26 am
Natalie,
Sorry for the delay in responding to your inquiries, but I was out of the office all day yesterday.
Your grades are good. Since colleges like to see upward trends in grades, I suggest that you continue to study hard. Based on your grades, you should be able to score high enough on the SAT to get into schools like Berkeley and UCLA.
Rather than rely on my advice, however, you should work closely with your school’s college guidance office. They will be able to give you a more realistic assessment of your chances of getting into the schools of your choice.
Yes, you can take the PSAT after you’ve taken an SAT.
Good luck.
May 3rd, 2008 at 5:12 pm
1.) What are schools’ policies on mixing scores from two tests?
Let’s say I score high on math the first time I test and high on
reading the second time. Will colleges consider a total score
calculated with both high scores?
2.) I took the ACT and scored poorly. Unfortunately, I had the
test automatically send my scores to colleges. My SAT scores are
decent though. Will colleges ignore my ACT?
May 4th, 2008 at 9:04 am
Hello,
Right now, I am junior in high school.
I got a 2250 on my SAT’s:
740 CR
780 Math
730 Writing
Should I take it again to try and break 2300, or is that good enough to get into the ivy’s?
Also, is it frowned upon to take the same SAT Subject tests more than once?
Thanks.
May 4th, 2008 at 9:36 am
Alfred,
1) Most colleges will consider only your highest combination. So, yes, they will take your highest math and highest critical reading, even if they were earned on different test dates.
2) Yes, colleges will ignore the ACT and focus on your (higher) SAT.
Good luck.
May 4th, 2008 at 9:38 am
Angela,
Your scores are pretty awesome. I think your chances of being admitted will have more to do with your grades and extracurricular activities than anything else. Unless you’re pretty sure you can do better, you shouldn’t bother taking the SAT again. Good luck.
May 4th, 2008 at 7:29 pm
Thanks for your response! I feel much more comfortable with my
scores now.
May 14th, 2008 at 5:36 pm
Karl,
I heard that if you take the SAT three times or less, then colleges will take your top scores for each test as your total overall score, but if you take the SAT four or more times then your average of all your testing is the score that will be taken as your overall score. Is this true? I am finishing my junior year and plan on taking the SAT in June and will likely take it again in the fall. I am just wondering whether to take it a fourth time depending on this way of recording my score.
May 15th, 2008 at 7:23 am
Patsy,
I know a lot of people in admissions and I have never heard of the practice you described in your comment. Now, I’m not saying that there aren’t schools that will average scores, what I am saying is that I have never heard of such a practice. To play it safe, once you have your college list together, you should check each school’s policy.
In any case, if your fourth test scores are high, you will benefit regardless of whether or not your scores are averaged. Have faith in yourself. If you take the summer to prepare the “right” way (by building your vocabulary, improving your problem solving skills, etc.), everything you do will help you score higher on the SAT in the fall and help you prepare for senior year, college, and life beyond.
Good luck!
May 22nd, 2008 at 11:54 am
Karl,
To give you an overview:
I am a junior at a public high school, white, having attended a prestigious private high school for sophmore and freshman years. I was very involved at my old school as editor of the newspaper and in numerous clubs. At my school, now, I am not involved in any extracurriculars whatsoever, besides the lackluster “Latin National Honors Society,” a total farse. Anyways, I got the following on my SAT’s today (scores were reported online today, May 22)
CR: 680
Math: 650
Writing: 710
for a combined 2040.
My gpa is probably around a 3.5 or 3.6 unweighted, and a 3.8 or 3.9 weighted
I am in all Honors and AP classes.
Do you think I should take the test again? Mind you, I am positive I could do better on the writing section (I didn’t complete my essay), but I am apprehensive about the Math section–I had been taking practice tests in preparation for the test and never scored above a 630.
Also, as a cynic, I have come to the conclusion that although admissions officers claim to only consider your highest scores, in reality, all scores are at least somewhat considered (for instance, if I recieved a 2000 and then earned a 2400, admissions officers would not regard me as highly as someone who recieved a 2400 on their first attempt, and might even blame the perfect score on coaching or test prep.) Please debunk this argument; it scares me.
And finally, in total honesty, are ivies a reach for me?
Thanks and pardon the length,
Monsieur Robert Viano
May 23rd, 2008 at 8:32 am
Robert,
Your current scores are great. Congratulations.
If you think you can do better in Writing, you should definitely go for it. I would also like to mention that you are only about 2 questions away from a 700 in CR. Thus, you should strongly consider extra reading and vocabulary building over the summer months. (Improved reading comprehension and a larger and more varied working vocabulary will pay dividends in college as well.)
I think you need to push yourself in Math. I don’t see any reason why you can’t practice enough to get into the 700s. You should take advantage of ePrep’s free “ePrep for the SAT” trial. I think the math section of my program can help you break into the 700s in math. (The free trial is a risk free way to decide whether you think it can help you.)
Remember, most colleges receive tens of thousands of applications each year. Admissions people are not going to waste time trying to figure out why you scored what on a given test day. Furthermore, each year colleges report the average SAT scores of their freshman classes. All colleges want to project the image of being highly selective. Thus, they will use the highest SAT combination when they calculate such averages. What I am trying to say is that because colleges want to report the highest SAT scores possible after admitting a class, they will consider highest combinations during the admission process.
You asked for honesty, so here it is: Given what you have told me, which is very little, I think the Ivies are a stretch. (Now, I’m not saying that you couldn’t do the work, or even thrive at an Ivy League school, I’m saying that I don’t think you will be admitted — again based on the little you have told me about yourself.) Your grades are fine and your SAT scores are in the right range. What you seem to be missing are extracurricular interests/talents that attract coaches, faculty members, and admission officers. (There are a lot of applicants with high GPAs and high SATs.)
That being said, there may be something about you — that you haven’t disclosed — that would attract highly selective colleges. Also, the Ivies are not the only schools that can delivery a quality education. (On average, I had better teachers at Seton Hall University than I did at Princeton.) Please keep in mind that what you get out of college is highly dependent on what you put into it.
I hope this helps. Please send an update when you get a chance. Also, please do not hesitate to ask follow-up questions.
May 23rd, 2008 at 5:10 pm
Hi,
I am from Hong Kong, no longer in high school and am now preparing for the Cambridge GCE.
I did very badly in high school. The grades I got seem terrible to admissions of any college in US. While universities only look at the results of public exams, I also did badly in the exams, such as HKCEE, the equivalent to IGCSE. Therefore, I am taking GCE in order to matriculate in Hong Kong and compensate for my poor grades for admission to US colleges. Would people like me who have awufully poor grades or GPA be ever admitted by selective colleges in US?
I took the SAT Reasoning Test in 10/2007 and got a very poor score 1580(CR440, M700, CR440). Then, I tried to apply to a liberal college in US with that SAT score but was rejected for the reason that my high school grades were too disappointing.
Recently, I took the SAT in Math Level 2 in May but hadn’t done much practice before the test. Eventaully, I scored a 720. I am taking it again for a 760 or even 800, and the test in physics in June. Both tests will be viewed by the HK universities I have applied to. Could you advise me on what I should do to improve my performance in the coming SAT tests?
Anyway, I am planning to apply to colleges in US for Spring 2009. Even if I am admitted by universities in HK, but to a not quite good program, I will possibly consider giving up the offer or transferring to a US college after the first year. Prior to that, I am going to retake the SAT I in October. My objective is to get 600+ in the verbal and the writing sections, and ideally a 800 in the math section. Could you suggest some methods for improving my SAT score? Also, with fair grades of GCE and that target range of SAT scores, is it possible that I will be accepted by the top 50 colleges in US, either as a freshman or as a transfer student? Please give advice on my plan. Thank you. And sorry for my poor english.
May 24th, 2008 at 12:49 pm
Jackie,
Your SAT math scores are very good. Congratulations. While I think an ePrep study program could help you improve your CR and Writing scores, you should consider spending your time preparing for the TOEFFL. Many international students submit TOEFL scores along with their applications.
I honestly think you will have trouble getting into a highly selective American school with poor grades. That being said, the United States has many colleges and universities (beyond those in the top 50) that offer a first-class educational experience. Please consider such schools as you create a college list. Many of them will be more likely to de-emphisize your poor grades and emphasize your high math SAT scores.
I hope my advice helps. Please do not hesitate to ask follow-up questions.
June 7th, 2008 at 10:51 am
I have completed my first year of post-secondary studies in an
undergraduate program at a Canadian university. My
query is an unusual one – is it possible to re-take the SAT
and apply as a Transfer student to an IVY League university in
the states with the emphasis being on my latest test results,
even if I have taken the SAT previously? If so, which will be
weighted more heavily, my performance on the SAT, my GPA or a
cumulative combination of both? My second query – when the
university reviews a transfer’s application, what heavily
influences the decision of acceptance or rejection, except from
the applicant’s GPA, SAT scores, and extracurricular activities
(sports and club-involvement)? My last question – in addition
to retaking the SAT, are SAT subject tests also recommended?
I would greatly appreciate your advice, much thanks,
Charley
June 7th, 2008 at 10:57 am
In addition to my previously submitted questions above, does it help if one has a legacy at the Ivy League school one is applying to transfer to?
Thanks again,
Charley
June 7th, 2008 at 12:07 pm
Charley,
The only easy question is the last one. Yes, being a legacy definitely helps.
Give me a day or two to get back to you on the other questions. I want to check with Don Betterton and Seamus Malin on those. I will post a reply as soon as I can.
June 8th, 2008 at 4:16 pm
Hi,
Currently I am a freshman going onto sophomore year. As a freshman, I have taken the SAT:subject test for Biology and I think (since I took it in June) I scored a 720-740. I also took the PSAT and I scored a 180. I also have a 4.0 GPA and am taking accelerated and honors classes (though they dont count towards weighing your GPA). If I can maintain all As next year, my GPA would be a weighted 5.0. In addition the amount of AP classes I will take will increase substantially as my years in high school will progress. SO, on average, I will have a GPA of from (4.5-5.0). I will ultimately plan to take 3 Subject tests. I also am active in my school with the extracurriculars. I play football and track. I have been on Mock Trial as a star witness (I am going to be in a leadership position next year), I am president of the Invisible Children club and the Red Cross Club and I’m school treasurer. Moreso, I am enthusiastically engaged with aiding 3rd world countries and recently I have been awarded by the country of Cambodia along with my mentor for the creation of a new school. Im a great writer as well and am in the completing stages of a novel that I am planning to publish. In essence I know I am working hard, but do I stand out? I also, since I am still a freshman, dont know what sort of SAT scores I should aim for or how much community service hours I need. My colleges I plan to attend are UCLA, Berkeley, and Stanford, and Brown University. Do I have a shot at these colleges at the rate I am going? Thanks for taking the time to answer.
June 9th, 2008 at 7:25 am
Huzma,
You absolutely have a shot at those colleges. Keep up the good grades in school and shoot for 2100+ on the SAT. Here are my thoughts regarding your extracurricular activities:
1. If it is possible to get recruited for either football or track, double your training efforts and go for it. Even if it means having to drop a couple of other activities. (I give this advice, by the way, assuming that you really enjoy football and track.)
2. Based on what little I know, the activities that appear unique and interesting are the Invisible Children club, the Red Cross club, and your work in Cambodia. They help you stand out (as does the novel).
3. Mock trial and school treasurer are great experiences and, if you like them, keep doing them. They are not likely to “wow” admission officers, however.
The bottom line, Humza, is that you sound like a very interesting and very energetic person. Keep up the good work and things will work out for you.
Hope to hear from you again soon.
June 9th, 2008 at 9:26 pm
Thanks,
oh and, by the way, I play football and track but I play for fun and I dont think I stand out much in terms of sports at my school, though I play. My follow up question is what do admission officers want to see in terms of community service hours (how much)? I hope Im not being a burden but, what courses/activities do you recommend taking for a student wishing to pursue medical sciences and Pre-med? Lastly, how important is it to utilize the summer for additional supplemental classes?
June 9th, 2008 at 9:52 pm
Humza,
Some students, unfortunately, engage in “resume building” during high school. In other words, they participate in specific extracurricular activities because they think doing so will impress college admission officers. Trust me, people who work in admissions are smart–they can easily sniff out students who are trying to “pad” their applications.
So to answer your question: there is no set (or magic) number of community service hours. If fact, I got into Princeton with zero community service hours. I wasn’t a thoughless teenager; I had to work after school because I felt an obligation to help my parents pay for my schooling.
Follow your passion, Humza, and trust your instincts. You sound like an amazing person with tons of potential. Things will work out just fine.
As far as classes go, take the most rigorous courses you can. High school is a great time to learn as much as you can about various disciplines. Anatomy, human physiology, biology, chemistry, etc. will certainly help prepare your for a major in pre-med, but taking them all is certainly not required.
I hope my rambling helps. Hope to hear from you again soon.
June 10th, 2008 at 7:59 am
Charley,
I checked with Don. Before taking the SAT again, you should check with the schools on your transfer list one-by-one to learn about there transfer policies. At most schools, however, the focus would be on your first-year grades and professor recommendations. In other words, earning good grades this year and obtaining a strong letter of recommendation from one of your current professors will be critical.
If you do retake the SAT, your highest combination will likely be considered. As far as subject tests go, find out if the schools on your list require them of transfer students.
I hope this helps. Don’t hesitate to pose follow-up questions. Good luck.
June 16th, 2008 at 3:59 pm
Hello,
I have just finished my first year at the University of
South Florida. I already know that I want to transfer to Howard
University in Washington DC. I do not think that my SAT scores
are high enough for the school. It requires subject tests and I
did not take any. Am I allowed to take the SAT’s again
even though I am already in college to get a higher grade
and take subject tests to possibly transfer to Howard?
Thank you for your help
June 16th, 2008 at 9:46 pm
Samantha,
Please see my note to Charley above. You should check with Howard to understand how its admission staff evaluates transfer student applications. As Don said when I asked him the question for Charley, many colleges focus more on grades and professor recommendations when in comes to transfer students. I hope this helps. Good luck.
June 22nd, 2008 at 5:05 pm
I have taken the SAT 3 times. My scores have gone up dramatically in all 3 sections since the first time i took them other than CR. If i took the SAT a fourth time and again improved my score do you think it would be shrugged off by admissions oficers as a result of becoming too familiar with thte test? And my other question is what advise do you have for improving my CR score?
Thank you
June 25th, 2008 at 4:32 pm
Danny,
Sorry for the delay. I have been traveling the last few days.
I will post a reply tomorrow morning. Thanks for being patient
with me.
June 25th, 2008 at 7:34 pm
Ok no problem i have been busy with finals anyway.
Thank You for responding though.
June 26th, 2008 at 7:36 am
Hey Karl,
I am a rising senior and have taken the SATs 3 times, my highest score being a 2070 (680 CR, 700 Math, 690 Writing). As with most people here I too hope to attend an Ivy League college for my undergraduate year. My question is more regarding the “new policy” that College Board has enacted with the students being able to choose which scores to send to college come 2009. I was wondering if you can shed some light upon this, and whether, given this new policy, I should take the SATs for a fourth time to help raise my score.
Thanks.
June 26th, 2008 at 8:32 am
Karl,
I would also appreciate if you can give me some info as to how this eprep program may help me, as, by the look of the site, it seems effective.
June 26th, 2008 at 2:51 pm
I just took the SAT in june and scored a 1670. I was wonderind
if i study hard enough, do you think i can reach a 2000?
June 26th, 2008 at 2:51 pm
wondering*
June 26th, 2008 at 5:45 pm
Hey Karl,
I took the SAT twice, my highest being 2100 (720 in math, 680 in critical reading, and 700 in writing. The only extracurricular activity I have is marching band. My GPA is around 4.3 weighted, 3.79 unweighted. I took three SAT Subject Tests.
Chemistry: 710
U.S. History: 710
Math Level 2: 730
Do you think this is enough to get into Columbia University, Washington University in St. Loouis, Brown University, or Stanford University?
June 26th, 2008 at 5:57 pm
I took the SAT in June and compared to the PSAT my percentile scores moved up in critical reading, and moved down in math and writing. I scored a 630 in Critical Reading, a 590 in Math, and a 490 in writing. I am confused by the math score because I will be taking AP Calculus this fall which is the highest level possible, and I have always excelled in math. The writing is a known problem area. What do you suggest for improving the writing score? It does not seem like a skill that lends itself to testing for improvement.
Also, I have no extra curricular activities at school; however I am an Eagle Scout which I enjoy very much. I read your comments about padding activities, however it seems there must be something I can do to enhance this on my record. Do the extra curricular activities have to be tied to the school? Do they care about the Scouts and Eagle rank?
I will be applying to Purdue, Indiana University, and University of Washington, Seattle. Purdue and IU do not seem to have very stringent standards, however I would appreciate any concerns you can point to.
June 26th, 2008 at 5:58 pm
Also I was thinking about a part time job this summer and fall. Is this factored into any assessments?
June 26th, 2008 at 5:58 pm
Sorry but I forgot to include some information. I am Korean and my family is Asian. I took the PSAT and scored around a 2040, with 760 in math being all that I can remember right now. I attend a public high school, and I am in the top 5% of my class, my ranking being around 15. I am going into Senior year this year. I am in three clubs, but I do not really do much in them. I have around 80 hours in community service, which will become at least 100 by the end of the summer. I got a National Merit letter for doing well in the PSAT but I will most likely not be a Finalist, let alone Semifinalist.
June 27th, 2008 at 7:35 am
Danny, Sudhakar, Nicole, John, and David: Individual replies follow.
June 27th, 2008 at 7:48 am
Danny,
Admission staffers will not shrug off any good score. Trust me. They will assume that each high score represents you at your best. Again, I know a girl who took the SATs 7 times before being admitted to Dartmouth College. Her last math score was her best by far.
As far as CR goes, here are my recommendations:
1. Read as much as you can this summer and work on building your vocabulary every day.
2. When it comes to actual test taking, please consider watching the ePrep video linked with the post entitled, “Critical Reading Another Way – Sam’s Story.” (http://blog.eprep.com/2006/08/10/be-willing-to-flip-the-script-sams-story) Also, experiment with Viktor’s technique described below. (Viktor is a student from Hungary.)
“I have developed a revolutionary new technique to crack the CR section. I highly recommend you to try this with international or slow reader students.
I realized that I have no big trouble with the short passages, only with the long ones. Then I can divide the long passage into short ones. I mean I read the first 10-15 lines of a long passage, and then I answer to the questions which are referred to that part, using fresh knowledge. Then I move on to the next 10-15 lines, and find those questions. This prevents the tempting answer choices to confuse me, because I can cross out the answers that are completely alien to that particular 10-15 lines. After this, I have enough knowledge to answer to questions that have no line reference.
Using this technique, my score on my latest SAT CR section was 650. I never did better than 550 before, so it definetaly works for me.”
Good luck, Danny. Please do not hesitate to ask follow up questions.
June 27th, 2008 at 7:55 am
Sudhakar,
The new policy may be too late for you. You will be submitting applications in 2008. Regardless, schools will consider your highest combination.
While I think your scores are awesome, I would like to make a suggestion. Use your free time this summer to read, build your vocabulary, and complete as many math and writing practice tests as you can.
If you can get your CR and writing scores to 700+ and your math into the mid 700s, I think it will make a big difference in the admissions game. You are so close already that I think you owe it to yourself to try. You will never regret any investment you make in your education.
Good luck.
June 27th, 2008 at 8:03 am
Nicole,
No doubt you can do it. I have witnessed bigger jumps than that from the spring to the fall. If you study hard, and effectively, you will surely surprise yourself. Don’t be afraid to go for it. Studying won’t always be fun, but I think the sacrifice will be worth it.
Good luck.
June 27th, 2008 at 8:10 am
John,
Your SAT scores will not keep you out of any of the schools you listed in your first comment. Congratulations! Your scores are really awesome.
In order to increase the likelihood of being admitted by one of those schools, however, you’ll need something in your application that makes you stand out. Unfortunately, neither the marching band nor the number of community service hours is likely to do the trick. I suggest you think long and hard about “why” you’ve done some much community service and about “how” it has changed you. The answers to these questions may reveal something about you that admission officers will value greatly. Good luck and please do not hesitate to post follow-up questions if you have them.
June 27th, 2008 at 8:23 am
David,
With a moderate amount of practice-grade-review, you can easily get your math and writing scores into the 600s. You should try the math and writing sections of ePrep’s free trial. They may offer enough help to boost your scores just enough.
The fact that you are an Eagle Scout is awesome! It demonstrates a level of commitment that colleges value greatly. You might want to write an essay about what you’ve learned from being a Scout over the years.
Employment is always valued by admissions staffers. It demonstrates levels of responsibility and real world experience that are truly valued by people in admissions.
It sounds to me like you live life fully, David. Keep it up and things will work out. Good luck.
June 27th, 2008 at 8:28 am
Danny, Sudhakar, Nicole, John, and David: Individual replies have been posted.
June 27th, 2008 at 3:19 pm
Thanks a lot Karl. Btw, I have purchased your product and I will
use it as much as I can.
June 27th, 2008 at 6:52 pm
Thank You Karl. That reply was very helpful and i will put those trining techniques to use this summer. Victors idea is interesting and it seems like it will work for me because that is where i have my issues. My scores were 650 on math, 620 on writing and 570 on critical reading on my last SAT. Thank You for the advice i think it will serve me well.
June 28th, 2008 at 7:33 am
Nicole,
The students who have completed ePrep courses have experienced huge score increases. The key is obviously working through the course. If you put your mind to it and actually get things done, I’m sure you will feel a whole lot smarter by the time you finish. Please do not hestitate to contact me or ePrep’s customer service with any questions or comments. Good luck!
June 28th, 2008 at 7:38 am
Danny,
Nice job in math and writing. Both scores are solid. Good luck on the CR. A few of the students who I tutor privately have used Victor’s method and it has worked very well for them. I hope you have the same success. Talk to you soon.
July 2nd, 2008 at 2:19 am
Hello,
I’m a junior and I haven’t taken the SAT, when
should I take the SAT and still have the opportunity to retake
it for better scores.
July 2nd, 2008 at 2:45 am
Amanda,
Did you just finish junior year or are you going into junior year? Please let me know.
July 2nd, 2008 at 4:39 pm
Sorry, I’m going into junior year.
July 3rd, 2008 at 8:12 am
Amanda,
If you take the first SAT in the spring of 2009, you will have six dates (over a ten month period) to retake the SAT. In other words, you have plenty of time and opportunity in front of you. Just read a lot this summer and continue to work diligently when school starts again in September. Junior year is an important one.
July 5th, 2008 at 8:05 am
hello
i am a high school senior from india.
im wanting to get into a course relating to business,marketing and entrepreneurship.
i didnt do to well on my sat1(1930-cr570,writing600,math760)
im really good at math and have aced the math 1c and 2c.
however,i still have to give biology this october or november.
im looking at cmu,john hopkins,kellog,nyu and emory.
i am ranked no 3 in my batch and ranked no 1 in accounts.
i am member of my schools football team and part of 5 of my schools clubs( editorial board, interactclub utc)
i have done 100 hours of social work and also play the drums.
however i really need your advise on how i should go about things as i am very concerned if i will get into the college of my choice.
Thanking you
nakul
July 6th, 2008 at 1:47 pm
Nakul,
Don’t give up on the CR and writing. I think with some practice, you can increase those scores significantly.
As far as extracurricular activities go, I think you should focus on one or two activities that you really enjoy. If you try to do too many, you will only spread yourself too thin.
The schools on your college list are very good ones, by the way. Good luck.
July 6th, 2008 at 7:40 pm
Hi, I am a hispanic student who moved from guatemala when I was 10 years old knowing no english at all. I am now going to be a senior who hope to get into a few Ivy league schools (all actually except Dartmout and Cornell). I took the SAT test in May of my junior year and got CR-670 Math-550 (kind of bad I know) and Writing-720. I am involved in NHS, Student Council, Renaissance (a Jostens’ sponsored club), Interact (Rotary sponsored), plus a lot of community service hours and an after school job. This fall is my last chance to really showcase my abilities and strengths. I have a 4.0 unweighted, 4.7 weighted, all honors and a.p. classes (my school offers very few a.p. courses but I will take all of the ones available). Also, I need help deciding which subject tests to take. Would it look bad to take the spanish subject test because I’m fluent in spanish? What advice could you give me on improving my chances for such top tier schools?
Thank you so much and I appreciate any advice you can give me.
July 6th, 2008 at 10:39 pm
Hi, Karl.
First off, I admire your determination to answer everyone’s questions about college admissions. I’ve been looking around for simple advice from experienced and knowledgeable people, but they usually charge ridiculous amounts of money.
Anyways, I’m going to be a senior for the 2008-2009 school year, and being the procrastinator that I am, I am trying to take as many SAT I/II tests as I can. The Oct. 4th test will be my first. But since I’m trying to cram 3 tests in, will I be able to receive my scores for the Dec. 6th test in time for the college application deadlines? I think the deadlines usually fall somewhere during the last week of December…?
Also, I know that Collegeboard recently changed the score-reporting policy, but just to make sure…
If I take three SAT exams in Oct., Nov., and Dec. 2008, can I decide which scores to send?
Thanks!
-Alice
July 7th, 2008 at 7:55 am
Alice,
First, thank you for the kind words. I really appreciate them.
Regardless of whether you take the SAT I in October or November, you should have the scores back before the December test date. (By the way, you can take and submit SAT scores after application deadlines. In other words, if you are applying “regular,” any December and/or January test scores will be considered.)
As far as I know, the new SAT score reporting policy will not go into effect until 2009. Thus, you will not be able to pick and choose.
Good luck. Please do not hesitate to ask follow-up questions.
July 13th, 2008 at 7:07 pm
Hey Karl,
You said that colleges don’t really care how many times you have taken the SAT, but I was looking at Yale’s website and it said that it takes the amount of times a student takes the tests into consideration, because the scores show that the student improves because of repetition. Why the contradiction? I am asking because I am considering applying to Yale, but I have taken the ACT 3 times already, and haven’t achieved the score I believe is representative of me. Do the same rules apply to the ACT, with consideration of taking the test too many times?
July 14th, 2008 at 7:21 am
Brennan,
The ACT Corporation let’s you send to colleges the score of your choice. Yale will never know how many times you took the ACT.
By the way, the College Board will be implementing a similar score reporting policy in 2009.
Good luck.
July 14th, 2008 at 3:29 pm
Thanks Karl!
I really appreciate your feedback. I feel a lot better now.
August 4th, 2008 at 2:41 pm
Hi, Karl
I’m going to be a junior in high school soon and I have yet to sign up for the SATs or any SAT subject tests. I have not begun studying for them yet, so how many times and also what months would you recommend I take them?
The last time I took them was in 7th grade for Johns Hopkins and I got a 2020 on the old SATs given that I had taken only 1 month of Alg II and had not taken Geometry or advanced English courses. I take all honors and AP courses at my high school and, so far, almost all my final grades have been pretty awesome grades (between 96-99)that have resulted in me being in teh 100th percentile with a 4.3 weighted GPA and 3.8 unweighted(I got a 90% in first quarter freshmen english and ceramics but in my school only a 92% or above is an A) and I have participated in (as of sophmore year) debate team for 2 years now(good chances of being captain my senior year), art club for two, french club for 1, science olympiad for 1, and NHS for 1. I would like to get accepted into UPenn but am also planning on applying to other ivy leagues but am very nervous about what my SAT scores will be. About what range of SAT scores do you think I will need to get accepted into UPenn or other highly selective schools given my other credentials?
I was also wondering if Pennsylvania residency and/or how many times one contacts/visits UPenn or other colleges affects admissions,and if so, how much?
Thanks
August 4th, 2008 at 2:50 pm
I have enjoyed taking ceramics for the past 2 years and have been successful enough to have, so far, 1 piece entered into an art competition(results not back yet). Unfortunately, I’m a perfectionist and part of my success is that I spend a lot of time on it both in school and afterschool. I am signed up to take the next level next year(hopefully pass/fail as it is not an honors or AP course and therefores weighs down my GPA even if I get an A) and I was wondering if colleges even notice it and if they did, if they would consider it a positive quality, creative outlet, etc. that makes me well rounded because I’m afraid it might start affecting my other classes considering im planning on taking AP Chem, AP Euro, Calc BC, Physics honors, English honors (AP not offered), and French 4 Honors in addition to ceramics and my extracurriculars. Would colleges even consider it a waste of my time and lower my chances of getting accepted?
August 4th, 2008 at 3:01 pm
Hi Karl,
Sorry I keep asking you so many questions, I’m just so nervous. I took AP US History in my sophmore year and got high A’s throughout the course (#1 in my class of 30 sophmores, juniors, and seniors) and was able to get a 5 on the AP test. Unfortunately, I’ve had a summer to forget everything (and I quickly forget), but would you recommend that I sign up to take US History SAT subject test? Considering I’m going to be taking AP Chem, physics, and calc BC this upcoming year and have already taken ALg I, ALg II, and Alg III/Trig, what SAT II subject tests do you recommend I take and when? Unfortunately I only have my junior year and maybe the first half of senior year to get these all done. I haven’t taken the SAT test in a while and have never taken an SAT subject test and I don’t know how they work, like can I take two subject tests in one day at one location or is it only one per testing date. Another thing is that the January testing date is during midterms, teh June around finals, and the May around AP tests, so I’m not sure if it’s worth taking the SAT multiple times and many SAT subject tests, but I need to maximize my scores in all areas. I’m so nervous and any advice is appreciated. Thanks
August 6th, 2008 at 3:09 pm
Kelly,
I am currently on vacation and a little pressed for time today. I will respond to your comments tomorrow morning. Thanks for being patient with me.
August 7th, 2008 at 10:22 am
Kelly,
You sound like an exceptionally talented and motivated student. Don’t worry too much about the SAT. Most of your peers (i.e., members of the class of 2010) will not take the SAT for the first time until March of 2009. If you take it then, you will still have May ‘09 and the entire fall to take it again, if need be.
As far as SAT subject tests go, you can take 1, 2, or 3 on any date they are offered. You’ll be able to decide which ones you want to take (and the order) the morning you take them. Don’t stress about them.
At some point, you should probably take one of the two math subject tests. (Level 2 would be better if you intend to apply to top tier schools.) The conventional wisdom is that you take subject tests at the end of full-year courses. For example, if you find yourself doing well in biology, take the biology subject test in June. This way, you can essentially study for the subject test and your school exam at the same time. (It is normal to forget a lot over the summer, by the way.)
The more good contacts you can have with Penn, the better off you will be.
If I missed any of your questions, please don’t hesitate to send me a follow-up note.
Good luck.
August 8th, 2008 at 1:17 pm
Hi, I thought this is a good place to ask questions about SAT…well, i’am a rising senior and I only took 2 subject tests(math2 and chem, both 800), which is a bare minimum for most of the colleges. Should I take one or two more to increase the chances of getting into good colleges?
or should I take the reasoning test one more time?
August 8th, 2008 at 3:14 pm
Jina,
Awesome scores! You should check with each of the schools on your college list just to make sure, but most selective colleges require only 2 SAT subject tests. You’re psyched! Let me know how things go. Also, please do not hesitate to post follow-up questions.
August 11th, 2008 at 10:56 am
I chose to graduate early from high school and i just signed up as a senior.
My dad keeps telling me what a terrible decision I’ve made.
I have reason to have to graduate so early and its him. He is a
very very rude, disrespectful, and hurtful person and seeing as
my sister is moving out, I CANNOT be stuck in this house alone.
I get 85-100 in all classes and I’m taking the hardest work load
i think I’ve ever seen (I’m handling it fine).
On my SAT I got a 550 in Critical Reading. I know, less than ideal.
A 620 on my Mathematics and a 640 on my writing.
I have a conflicting schedule that makes me have to decide to take
French OR Statistics. Here’s the catch, If i choose Statistics,
which is more relevant to what I want to be (lawyer), I cannot
graduate Distinguished, only Recommended.
Basically, the overall final question is, in my case, is it
better to graduate Distinguished or study what is relevant to
what i want to study?
August 11th, 2008 at 9:02 pm
Clarisa,
I took statistics in college. I am glad I did, but to be honest it wasn’t very helpful for law school.
Also, when all is said and done, graduating “recommended” or “distinguished” is not likely to make a significant difference in the application process.
As far as courses go, take the one that interests you more.
Good luck. Pease feel free to post follow-up questions. Keep working hard.
August 13th, 2008 at 5:21 pm
Hey Karl,
I know this is a blog concerning the SAT, but I have a question about admissions. I have been playing hockey for over 8 years, and I am on my high school’s team, and have been since I was a freshman. Also, I might be an assistant captain this year. But lately its getting boring, tedious, and not much fun anymore. I was wondering if I quit hockey, would it hurt me a lot on my applications? Should I stick through with it or do something more constructive like get a job or volunteer more, or would these things even help me this late in the game? I am SO conflicted right now, and SO stressed.
p.s
Is there anywhere else on this site or any other site where I might get some insight on this situation?
August 13th, 2008 at 9:08 pm
Jim,
I am relatively sure that at least a couple of ePrep’s guest experts (former administrators at schools like Princeton, Standford and Harvard) would tell you to follow your gut and try something new. Unfortunately, I can easily imagaine a couple of others telling you to stick it out with hockey, especially if you think there’s a chance you could become a recruited athlete.
My answer depends on what grade you’re going into. If you’re going into senior year, stick it out. If you’re going into sophomore or junior year, try something new. Do yourself a favor, however, and, if you pick something new, don’t just pick an activity that you think colleges will like. Pick something that you like (as long as it’s productive that is).
If you have follow-up questions or new questions, please feel free to post them. Hope to hear from you again soon. Good luck!
August 14th, 2008 at 12:22 pm
Thanks a lot Karl, you have really helped to assuage a lot of my fears. I really appreciate the time amd effort you put into your answers because those answers make this is one of the best SAT/College advice websites I’ve come across. Thanks again
August 15th, 2008 at 3:04 pm
Karl,
This is probably the oddest question here. Is it possible to retake the SAT’s as an adult?
In grade school, I was a straight A student (ok I occasionally had a B) and I had dreams of attending Yale or Princeton. I was one of only 2 students in 3 years to be accepted to a local top notch high school (sadly my single mother couldn’t afford the $27,000 a year bill for just high school) and I believe I received a 98 in some John’s Hopkins test I was required to take. Everything seemed great that is until high school and puberty hit. I went from an excellent student involved in everything to a recluse who was suicidal with bad ADD. Back in the early 90’s, depression and ADD wasn’t considered a serious enough “disease” and I basically just got yelled at a lot for why my grades were so poor. I had no drive or initiative to live let alone study or do well in school. I went from all A’s to C’s and D’s. When the SAT’s came along, I had SUCH a hard time sitting in the room I put anything down just to get the heck out of there. It felt like I was just going have a breakdown and jump out of my skin every time I took the test. My brain ran a mile a minute and I had no focus on anything at all. I received a 990 as my best score because of it all. My dreams of being in Yale or Princeton were long gone at that point and it made the depression even worse.
My mother forced me into a community college at 17 when I graduated though I knew I needed time to figure out what was going on in the head first. Nothing was harder than trying to figure out your own brain WHILE trying to do well in a school you were ashamed to be in. I barely got by (some poor guidance from the counselors didn’t help any but I won’t lay blame) and I have a 2.3GPA. To this day I resent looking at my associates degree in the cabinet; I won’t even acknowledge it unless I have to. Now I’m nearing 28 years old and my life is in a 100% completely different place than it was before and looking ahead, I now know where I am, where I want to be and how I want to get there. Unfortunately, I have the problems of my past that’s getting in my way and it’s really hurting me in more ways than one.
What I wish more than anything is to start over as a freshman at another school but I don’t think that’s an option so I have to look at what I can work with and try to fix what I can. I want to get a degree from some top notch school at some point in my life and I’m willing to do whatever I can to at least TRY to make it happen. For once in my life, I want to be proud of myself and what I managed to do and just some local mediocre college won’t cut it. I know most schools would want to see my SAT’s. Is there a way I can retake them at this point in my life or am I stuck with the problems my brain left me to deal with? I want to show that I can do better than what I did, that there were problems at the time that are now rectified and I’m willing to go the extra mile. I want to improve my GPA and make it so my transcripts don’t look like a complete failure. I am fairly certain I won’t be able to get into a school like Yale as an undergrad but if I can take the steps now to make myself look the best I can for Grad school, I want to have that shot. Any help is well appreciated and I’m sorry for the grotesquely lengthy post.
August 16th, 2008 at 7:50 am
Michelle,
You sound like an incredibly talented and resilient person. I agree that getting yourself back on track through education is the way to go.
I have degrees from Princeton, UPENN, and Seton Hall University. To be honest, Seton Hall was where I had my best learning experience. That’s not a knock on the Ivies — at Seton Hall I just happened to be studying education/teaching, a subject I’m passionate about. What I’m trying to say is that education is truly about what you put into it. The brand name schools can come later. For now just throw yourself in and earn high grades at any four-year institution.
As far as the SATs go; you can certainly take them as an adult and your scores will be considered in the admission process. As a matter of fact, I was with a friend last night who took the SATs when he was 30. He was laughing about being a head taller then any of the teens he encountered on test day.
I encourage you to use the SAT as a way to prepare for the academic rigors of a four-year college: build your vocabulary, develop your problem-solving skills, learn useful test-taking strategies, etc.
Good luck. Hope to hear from you again soon.
August 17th, 2008 at 2:32 pm
Hi Karl,
I am a junior right now and I am planning to take the SAT this October. I have already started my Sat prep with a tutor. And let me tell you that it costs a lot lot lot…and I am also attending the princeton review course from the end of august. As of now I do pretty good in the classes and my aim for the SAT score is somewhere near the 2250. But I kind of feel that no matter what I will not go past a 1700 score. I feel that when I go to the test I will mess up the whole thing and this is getting through my nerves. I feel like such a big looser. And I would like to attend a college and mostly Carnegie Mellon. I cant find anywhere what the SAT score requirement for Carnegie is though. Can you help me with that plzz? And also I actually came to America in my 10th grade only. As a result I was not able to take up any sports or community service or job or anything that is required to go into a good college. Can you suggest me something that might help me to gain somthing good for getting into carnegie??
August 18th, 2008 at 12:54 pm
Hi Eliza,
Carnegie Mellon is a wonderful university. I am glad you are considering it. I did a quick search and found a web site that listed SAT score ranges for Carnegie Mellon students. They are as follows:
SAT Critical Reading: 610 / 710
SAT Math: 680 / 780
SAT Writing: 610 / 700
While for some reason or another you may not be able to boost your scores above 1700 by October, please don’t convince yourself that you cannot do it by December or January.
You may want to seriously consider an ePrep course. I recommend that you start with the free trial. This way you can make an informed decision on whether or not to buy a study program.
Over the last year, I have witnessed score increases of 300-400 points by ePrep studens. I far as I can tell, there is no reason you cannot do the same.
Please don’t give up until you have given it your best shot. Enough practice before test day will help calm your nerves and allow you to achieve your full potential.
Good luck. Please do not hesitate to post follow-up questions.
August 25th, 2008 at 1:35 pm
Hi, I’m a junior aiming for medical school. I am taking all aps, a varsity swimmer since freshman year, and ranked in the top 10% of my school, but -unfortunately- due to a severe back injury, i wasn’t able to swim my sophomore year and my grades suffered from my lack of interest in school; however i am now fully recovered and looking to get back on track with my hopes of attending a 7 year medical program. I was wondering if I take the SAT every time it’s offered this year, would that be too much? and would a GPA of 4.3 put me in contention for a spot in an accelerated medical program?
oh and i really appriciate all the advice you have given; it’s extremely helpful
August 25th, 2008 at 4:46 pm
Tanwe,
There is no need to take the SAT every time it is offered this year. Take your time and prepare well. This way you’ll only have to take it once . . . maybe twice.
As far as your grades go, don’t worry about sophomore year. Colleges like to see upward trends in grades, and now that you’re healthy again, you have the opportunity to make big improvements both junior year and senior year. (4.3 sounds terrific, by the way.)
Good luck. Please keep in touch and do not hesitate to post follow-up questions, if you have any.
August 31st, 2008 at 6:18 pm
Does this apply to the SAT II exams as well ?
September 1st, 2008 at 10:38 am
I wouldn’t take a subject test more than twice, Maggie. That being said, colleges will consider your best score.
September 20th, 2008 at 3:58 am
Im an American citizen currently living in Pakistan. I completed my GCE A’levels just this year with grades AAB in accounting business and law. In my o’levels GCSE i had 3 A’s and 3 B’s. I will be giving my SAT this december, i plan on applying to NYU and Columbia.. What is the minimum SAT score required and are my grades valid enough to allow me to apply there? Would i even be considered?
September 20th, 2008 at 8:58 am
Samira,
There is no minimum SAT or grade point average (GPA) required to apply to an American university. In order to be seriously considered at schools like NYU and Columbia, however, your SAT scores should all be in the 650+ range.
By the way, from what little you told me in your comment, it sounds like you have a very interesting background. Good luck.
September 24th, 2008 at 8:46 am
Im an American citizen, with residence in New Jersey. My qualifications consist of GCE O’level with grades AABBBE in Business, Accounting, English, Economics, Arts, and Math. For that reason, I will be retaking my O’level math this November to improve to grade A – B. This May/ June I gave my GCE A’levels for Accounts and Business scoring AA and A/S level law scoring a B at 87 %. Im expected to give A2 with predicted grade A. I want to apply to Columbia School of Law for undergrad. But my question is that the deadline for fall 2009 application is 2nd Jan whereas my result for the above mentioned subjects comes out at a later date—around 18th Jan., does that still allow me to apply for the fallowing fall semester?
Both accounting and law are of as great importance to me, is it possible for me to apply for both the majors? Or is is a better option if i apply just for one?
This year is gap year for me, i took this opportunity to expand my horizon and do an internship at City Bank and a part time job for a particular law firm. Is there any other specific thing i can do to increase my chances of getting into Columbia?
Also, I’ve given my SAT Reasoning test and scored 1850, for that reason i’ll be retaking in both November and December. However, I have not given any SAT subject tests. Is there even any requirement for me to do so if im applying for just law?
Thankyou,
Maham
September 24th, 2008 at 11:14 am
Maham,
Because regular admission decisions are not made until March/April, you can apply in December and your January scores will be considered. I am a little confused by your email, however. Are you interested in applying to undergraduate or graduate programs? (You need to finish college before you can apply to the Columbia School of Law.) Your GCE exam history seems to indicate that you are beyond the U.S. high school level, but not yet past the U.S. college level. The admission officers at Columbia should be able to help you sort things out.
I just spend a few minutes searching http://www.columbia.edu and there is certainly a mountain of often-confusing information regarding programs and admission requirements. Since you don’t live very far from NYC, I encourage you to schedule an appointment with the admission office. Go in with a list of questions to ask in person. I am not sure whether you should pursue dual degrees (law and business) as an undergraduate or a graduate student. A few of my classmates at UPENN were pursuing joint degrees in law and business, and they seemed to really like the joint-program.
As far as the SAT reasoning test goes, please do what you can to get your overall score somewhere above 2100. You can do it, if you prepare diligently. You may want to consider an ePrep course. Since you are in the middle of a “gap” year, you probably have more time to study than the typical American high school student. Good luck. By the way, I think your GCE education will serve you well in the future.
September 24th, 2008 at 12:34 pm
Thanyou Karl, i really appreciate it. I am applying for the undergrad program, which i just found is considered as pre-law. Another question.. i just had a look at the SAT subject tests and since 9th grade because i did not take up Sciences or any other language subjects.. how do i manage to give the sat II in the relevent subjects provided. eg, biology spanish chineese etc. There is Math, level 1 and 2.. but considering my math backgroud being not so stong, i can only go for Math 1. But with the limited time i have, do you think its possible for me to take up world history or us history and get past it ? Or is the time too insufficient?
You said GCE will serve me well in the future, but isnt it that high school students are priortized over GCE students? Or is it the other way around?
September 25th, 2008 at 8:11 am
Maham,
Pick the 2 SAT subject tests in which you think you can score highest. As far as preparation goes, you should purchase “The Official Study Guide of all SAT Subject Tests.” It has sample tests in each of the 16 subject areas. You can get the book at most big book stores or online at
http://store.collegeboard.com/product_detail.asp?item=007034&BannerID=text_SujectTestGuideALL&AffiliateID=1
Certainly admission officers at American colleges and universities are more familiar with transcripts from American high schools, but GCE records (especially if they are strong) make those aplicants unique in a way. The important part is doing well in school as a teenager. Keep up the good work.
September 26th, 2008 at 2:08 pm
First of all, what a great site this is!!
My question: Is it mandatory to take the SAT after the PSAT to be considered for National Merit Awards? Do you know what tests they consider for confirmation of PSAT?
September 26th, 2008 at 3:01 pm
Linda,
As far as I know, you do not need to take the SAT after the PSAT. The National Merit Scholarships are awarded based on PSAT performance. (I will do a little research today, just to make sure. If I’m wrong, I will post something promptly.)
I am not sure I understand your second question. The results of the PSAT are shared with the National Merit Scholarship Corporation, which, by the way, has doled out more than $1.3 BILLION in merit scholarships since 1955. Taking the PSAT is the only thing you have to do in order to be considered for a National Merit Scholarship. There are no other forms or applications to fill out.
I hope this helps! Good luck and please do not hesitate to post follow-up questions or comments.
September 26th, 2008 at 3:06 pm
Linda, I was right. (See my last comment.) National Merit Scholarship programs do not require students to take the SAT, only the PSAT. The requirements (taken from the National Merit Scholarship Corporation’s website) are as follows:
To participate in the National Merit® Scholarship Program, a student must:
-take the PSAT/NMSQT® in the specified year of the high school program and no later than the third year in grades 9 through 12, regardless of grade classification or educational pattern;
-be enrolled full time as a high school student, progressing normally toward graduation or completion of high school, and planning to enroll full time in college no later than the fall following completion of high school; and
-be a citizen of the United States; or be a U.S. lawful permanent resident (or have applied for permanent residence, the application for which has not been denied) and intend to become a U.S. citizen at the earliest opportunity allowed by law.
September 30th, 2008 at 6:14 pm
Hey, I am trying to get into Stony Brook and i got a 1540/2200
on the SAT, now I am Senior who wants to take it again, except
I signed up for October and haven’t practiced one single SAT
since i took the SAT in June. I would much rather take it
in November but I am worried that i wont be able to make
early decision by doing that. I am not too familiar with how
this works. I am not sure if I should just take it in October
with not as much studying as taking it in November or taking
both which may turn out horrible if I score mediocre in
October and excellent in November. Can you please give my some
advice for my second time taking my SAT? Thank you in advance.
September 30th, 2008 at 9:02 pm
Andy,
I am pretty sure that a November score will count for early decision. I will check with one of ePrep’s guest experts and get back to you tomorrow morning.
October 1st, 2008 at 7:37 am
I am an international student from Japan aiming for the Ivy Leagues, particularly Princeton, Cornell, and Harvard. Currently, I am a senior and I took the SAT Reasoning Test in the October of my junior year and received the following scores:
Critical Reading: 700
Writing: 790
Math: 800
Considering the fact that my critical reading score likes at the low end of the middle 50% of admitted students at the top ivies, is it worth retaking the SAT?
October 1st, 2008 at 9:11 am
Shunsuke,
First of all, your scores are awesome. Congratulations. Clearly, you have studied diligently over the years.
The answer to your question depends on two things: (1) Do you think you can score higher in critical reading? (2) Do you have strong TOEFL scores?
If you are confident that you can score higher in critical reading (and can maintain similarly high math and writing scores), you might as well take it again. (An ePrep course may be able to help you raise the CR score. You may want to sign up for ePrep’s free trial first.)
If you have very strong TOEFL scores, you probably do not need to take the SAT again. Colleges expect high math scores from international applicants. You have a perfect math score. They are also looking for English fluency. A strong TOEFL would provide evidence of that.
I hope my thoughts help you make your decision. Please do not hesitate to send follow-up questions or comments. Good luck!
October 1st, 2008 at 10:25 am
Karl, thank you for your prompt response. My TOEFL scores are pretty high; I got 117/120 on the iBT. I actually think I can score higher in critical reading, but I am guessing by only 20-30 points. Does this make a difference?
October 1st, 2008 at 10:37 am
To be honest, Shunsuke, I do not think an extra 20-30 points will make a difference one way or the other. In other words, your SAT scores are high enough. Whether you are admitted will depend more on your grades and extracurricular interests, than on your standardized test scores. Good luck.
I am sure things will work out just fine.
October 1st, 2008 at 10:39 am
Andy,
I talked to Don Betterton this morning. He told me that a vast majority of schools will consider November SAT scores when reviewing early decision applications. Good luck.
October 1st, 2008 at 1:44 pm
Thank you very much. Karl you’re a Saint.
October 1st, 2008 at 2:14 pm
Another question, my prediction is I will do a lot better in
November then October, should i still take it in October anyway?
October 1st, 2008 at 2:58 pm
Andy,
If you really think you will do much better in November, I suggest you skip the test this Saturday.
Prepare well and crush it in November. Good luck.
October 1st, 2008 at 10:30 pm
Karl,
I’ve been reading through some of your advice, and you really know
your stuff. Well I seek your wisdom also.
I am currently a junior in high school.
To see how I would do, I took the SAT in June.
I was told by my SAT tutor that there was a new policy on the SAT.
He told me that now, I could take the SAT as many times as i wanted,
and all of the scores wouldn’t show up on the score report.
Eagerly, I signed up for the October session. I just learned,however,
that as I took the tests before March of 2009, the new testing policy
would not affect me. So my eagerness for a headstart would
become a pain in the neck. I do not think that is wholly unfair.
But i have also heard that the new policy acts retroactively, and I
would be able to pick my scores.
Which is true?
October 2nd, 2008 at 6:33 am
Anya,
As far as I know, the new policy does not apply retroactively, but I will check just to make sure. I will post another comment later this morning. Thanks for being patient.
October 2nd, 2008 at 9:34 am
Anya,
After a bit of research, I now believe that the new SAT score reporting policy WILL apply retroactively to both SAT reasoning and SAT subject tests taken prior to March 2009. Here is a statement from the College Board:
“After implementation (of the new scoring policy), when students send their scores (to colleges), they will have the ability to choose scores from tests taken prior to the launch (of the new policy).”
By the way, I am having lunch with some representative of the College Board early next week. I will ask them about the policy in person. If my opinion changes based on their response, I will be sure to post a comment.
October 2nd, 2008 at 4:43 pm
Thanks for the answer Karl.
I also sent an email to Collegboard too, and this is what they said:
“Beginning on March 2009 we will implement a new score reporting policy. This new policy will give students the freedom to send the scores by sitting (test date) that they feel best represent their ability to colleges and universities, at no additional cost. Designed to reduce student stress and improve the test-day experience, and will be available to students participating in the March 2009 test administration.
Any student who has taken an SAT prior to the policy launch or who registers for the SAT after launch will be able to take advantage of this new policy. The students who have taken tests prior to the launch can use the score-reporting feature retroactively. Additionally, this new score-reporting feature will be optional to students. If a student chooses not to select their scores, all of their scores will be sent.
This means even though you take the test prior to March 2009, once the policy comes into effect, you will still be able to choose which scores to send even if you took it prior to the launch.
This new score-reporting feature also gives colleges the ability to choose which scores are required for admission. Colleges and universities will communicate any changes to their admissions policies or application requirements to students.”
October 2nd, 2008 at 5:21 pm
Thanks, Anya. Your comment really clears things up. Good luck with the SAT!
October 3rd, 2008 at 5:20 am
Hello,
I would like some help. I am submitting all my applications this year for the class of ‘13 admission. I have decided to take my subject tests in December. Will I be able to get my scores back on time to submit regular decision?
Mart
October 3rd, 2008 at 7:50 am
Mart,
Your December scores will be sent directly to colleges by the College Board/ETS. Once colleges receive them, they will be added to your application file. You just need to make sure you submit your applications on time (i.e., by the appropriate deadlines).
FYI, taking subject tests in December is not unusual; lots of high school seniors do it every year.
Good luck!
October 3rd, 2008 at 7:59 am
Thats great! So I can just complete my applications and send them in and collegeboard takes care of the rest? You just took a load of my mind. Bless you!
Mart
October 3rd, 2008 at 10:47 am
Mart,
One last thing. You do have to tell the College Board which schools you want to receive your scores. Please do forget about this!
October 3rd, 2008 at 2:29 pm
Karl, would what you told me also apply to early action? I just
called the SAT center and they said that scores can take from
3 to 5 weeks to be processed and then it takes about 5 days to
mail the results. Do I have to be concerned that the test score
from November 1 won’t arrive at the college for early action
by December 15? From your experience how long does the process
take from the date of testing to the date the score arrives at
the college of choice? Thank you!
October 3rd, 2008 at 2:56 pm
Andy,
It usually takes about three weeks. Most schools receive the scores electronically from the College Board. In other words, colleges will very likely have your scores by Thanksgiving. The College Board always says 3-5 weeks in case something goes wrong.
October 3rd, 2008 at 9:38 pm
Hi Karl,
My SAT scores are:
680- math
590- critical reading
530- writing
I just wanted to know if I should even have some hope to get into Cornell’s Engineering school? Do you know of anyone who has gotten into Cornell or NYU with the scores I have or less? Also do you think it is possible for me to apply for early decision and send my Nov 1st 2008 SAT reasoning test score in? Thank You.
October 4th, 2008 at 4:37 am
“Please do forget about this!” HAHA. You meant don’t. Thanks anyway.
October 4th, 2008 at 1:50 pm
Hey Karl,
I just took the SAT II for biology this morning, and I think
I really failed(
October 4th, 2008 at 1:51 pm
Hey Karl,
My last message didn’t quite post properly. Anyways, I
think I got lower than 650 on my SAT II and I’m thinking about
cancelling my scores, but I also want to see what I got
so I know how I did. What do you think?
October 4th, 2008 at 2:37 pm
Johnson,
If you’re quite sure you messed it up, cancel the score and put it out of your mind. If you think it’s close to an acceptable score, don’t cancel because you never really know.
Sorry I can’t be more helpful. This is one you have to call.
October 4th, 2008 at 2:54 pm
What if I want to take the SAT II again? Will
the colleges just look at my best score?
October 4th, 2008 at 7:11 pm
Hi Karl,
My SAT scores are:
680- math
590- critical reading
530- writing
I just wanted to know if I should even have some hope to get into Cornell’s Engineering school? Do you know of anyone who has gotten into Cornell or NYU with the scores I have or less? Also do you think it is possible for me to apply for early decision and send my Nov 1st 2008 SAT reasoning test score in? Thank You.
October 5th, 2008 at 8:22 am
Johnson,
Colleges will consider your best SAT subject tests scores. I wouldn’t bother taking any subject test more than twice, however.
October 5th, 2008 at 8:26 am
Fariyal,
There are certainly students at Cornell who submitted SAT scores lower than yours. It is really going to come down to your grades, recommendations, and extracurricular activities.
If you apply early decision, your November scores will be considered. (By the way, if there is any way to bump the math up into the 700s and the CR into the 600s, that would certainly help your cause.)
Good luck.
October 6th, 2008 at 7:56 am
Hi Karl,
I took the SAT on Oct 4th, and I don’t think I did too well
on the math section, although I think I did pretty good
on the critical reading and writing. This was my second time
taking the SAT (the first time I took it was in June, with
scores of: 640-math, 630-CR, and 700-writing). I am not happy
with that score and I think even worse on math this time around.
My goal is to get atleast a 2200.If I’m applying
for regular decision primarily to ivy leagues, can i retake the
sat in january. I would retake it in november, but i’ve already
scheduled to take subject tests for that time. what do you
think is the best option for me.
October 6th, 2008 at 8:09 am
Nikita,
You can retake the SAT reasoning test in either December or January. If you really focus after November 1st, honestly, you should be able to get math into the 700s, writing into the high 700s, and CR into the high 600s at least. These increases will make a big difference, and I think you owe it to yourself to give it your best try.
You should definitely think about getting an ePrep course. (Sign up for a free trial, however, to check it out first.) If I were you, I would study diligently and retake the test in January. By the way, all of your SAT prep will also help prepare you for college. Good luck. Hope to hear from you again soon.
October 6th, 2008 at 6:26 pm
Hey Karl,
Johnson again. I heard of a SAT II math tactic that some people
use so that they can cancel just that test if they’re taking
more than one SAT II. If they decide they want to cancel math
but have more SAT IIs that day, they put dead batteries in
their calculator and fake a calculator malfunction(thus
allowing them to cancel ONLY their math score). I think that
this is extremely unfair. What’s your say?
October 6th, 2008 at 8:03 pm
Johnson,
I’ve never heard of that one before. You were nice to say “extremely unfair.” I would say it’s complete garbage.
I’ve heard of people registering for an SAT using their first name, last name, and middle initial. The next time they register, they use only their first and last names. The college board’s computer system “thinks” there are two different people, even though the address and everything else is identical. They then request that the better scores–with middle initial or without middle initial–be sent to colleges. I’m not sure if that really works. Again, complete garbage if it does.
October 6th, 2008 at 11:50 pm
Hi Karl!
I have an urgent question that I need you opinion on. I’m a senior that is applying for college as of now. I just took the October SAT reasoning. The last time I took it I got a very disappointing score: only 1870. I got CR 630 M 660 W 580; however, I didn’t get to study at all because I was really sick with the flu. I managed to get through the testing but as you can tell, I didn’t do so well. I want to get into USC. I rank top 8% in my class of 605. I was wondering, what are my chances of getting into USC and what score should I be aiming for? Should I retake it (since it doesn’t matter how many times I take it) and aim for a higher score if the October result turns out to be disappointing again? Also, I am applying for the December 1st deadline, so would I have time to take the reasoning test again in December or January? My class schedules throughout high school haven’t been particularly impressive. By the time I graduate in June, I will only have 9 AP and honor classes. I am in many clubs such as NHS, CSF, FBLA, and Model United Nations. Still, I feel that I am just going to get rejected nonetheless.
One more question. Should I take the 2 SAT subject tests and send the scores to USC even though they are optional? Would it make a difference?
Thank you so much.
October 7th, 2008 at 7:45 am
Winnie,
Take the SAT reasoning test again (Nov or Dec). With a few weeks of focused practice, you should be able to get both your math and writing scores into the 700s. (Seriously consider an ePrep course to help you. I have seen plenty of ePrep students bump scores up quickly in just a few weeks. The math and writing scores are the ones you’ll be able to increase quickly. Time is of the essence. Unfortunately, the CR usually takes a bit longer.)
With your math and writing scores in the 700s, your overall will be around 2050. This will give you a much better chance at USC. Your class rank out of 605 is impressive.
As far as SAT subject tests go, take the 2 on which you think you can score highest. If you don’t like the scores, don’t send them to USC, or any of the other colleges on your list.
By the way, January scores will be considered in the admission process, so don’t feel too rushed.
Please don’t forget that Part I of the USC application is due on October 15th!
Good luck.
October 8th, 2008 at 10:23 am
Hello, it’s me again. I don’t know if you remember, but I
asked about whether colleges took the highest test scores or not.
Well, I’ve taken the SATs twice now, and I’ve received the
following scores:
First Time/Second Time
Math: 580/670
Critical Reading: 630/640
Writing: 560/600
Total: 1770/1910
I don’t think my scores are that bad, but I’m sorry to say that
I did not prepare very well for either of them. The first time
I took the test, I did not get any sleep for two days because
I needed to finish a school project. The second time I took the
test, I did not do anything but read a few SAT test-taking tips.
I have taken it for the third time this October, and I want to
know whether you think there is a chance that I might be able
to reach a score of 2100. This time I prepared by taking some
SAT practice tests. I don’t know if this was enough. I have
a feeling that it wasn’t. I am feeling very anxious right now
because this seems to be my last chance to get the score I need
in order to have a good chance at getting accepted into U Penn.
If I do get a lower score than 2100, what are my options?
I would really appreciate your opinion in this matter.
Thank you so much.
October 8th, 2008 at 11:45 am
Shermaine,
I understand your frustration. Life as a high school student is incredibly busy. I went through it myself years ago.
The good news is that you can still take the SAT in November, December, or January. I know it’s coming down to the wire, but please don’t panic. If you prepare well, you should be able to get your math into the 700s, writing into the 700s, and CR near 700. Please do not give up on yourself.
I had a student years ago who took the SAT in Oct, Nov, and Dec. It wasn’t until December that she got the scores she wanted. She is a senior at Dartmouth now.
You may want to consider an ePrep course. There is a score guarantee that many of our students have exceeded significantly. You should sign up and try the free trial first. Good luck.
October 8th, 2008 at 4:02 pm
Hi Karl,
My SAT scores are:
750- math
720- critical reading
800- writing
My ACT score is 34, my SAT subject scores are not good (Math Level2 740,Physics 620, US Hist 650)
I just wanted to know if I should retake SAT subject test? I plan on applying to Harvard,Princeton
Yale and Stanford, do you think it is possible for me?
October 8th, 2008 at 4:06 pm
Thank you so much!
October 8th, 2008 at 5:07 pm
Charlie,
Your scores are awesome. Congratulations. If you think you can get physics and history into the 700s, you should try. In many ways, however, your scores are already high enough for schools like Princeton, Harvard, Yale, and Stanford. Whether you are admitted will now depend primarily on your GPA, teacher recommendations, background, and extracurricular activities. I trust they are strong/interesting as well. Good luck!
October 19th, 2008 at 11:24 pm
Hello,
I am currently a senior in high school. I took 3 SAT II’s in June 2008. My scores are US Hist= 720, Math Level 2= 750, and Spanish w/out listening= 600. My goal is to get into UC Berkeley, USC, UCLA, or Cornell. Should I retake Spanish (since the score is so low)? Also, should I take additional subject tests, such as Physics (since I haven’t taken any Physics AP Tests at all)? Or should I just focus on my college applications more? I would appreciate all your advice! Thanks!
October 20th, 2008 at 11:46 am
Jessica,
Your subject scores are awesome. I wouldn’t worry about the Spanish one. There aren’t too many senior girls who can say they scored a 750 on the Math Level 2. That score alone will set your application appart from others.
I think you should focus on your applications now. Good luck. Please let me know how things go.
October 20th, 2008 at 10:04 pm
Hi Karl,
I don’t have high score in SAT with alright GPA but I wanna
get in NYU major in Music Business.
Do I think I have hope for it?
Thanks
October 21st, 2008 at 8:10 am
There’s always hope, Sally, so don’t give up. You should, however, work to get your SAT scores up. Prepping for the SAT the right way will not only increase your scores, it will help prepare you for the academic challenges of college.
What I am trying to say is that, if you want to get into (and thrive at) a challenging school like NYU, you should embrace the challenge now, while you are still in high school. Get serious about academics now and I’m sure things will work themselves out just fine. Good luck.
October 23rd, 2008 at 9:06 am
The first time i took the SAT in June I got a 1610.
500-CR
510-M
600-W
I just got my october scores and from this test i got a 1620
530-CR
540-M
550-W
So overall my score is a 1670.
I’m still discouraged because I put a lot of effort into
studying. I did a lot of review and practice tests both times
before I took the actual test.
I don’t have time to take it again, because I have to take the
SAT IIs in Dec. with my score could I still get into schools
like Elon, Vanderbilt, Emory, Columbia and Duke?
October 23rd, 2008 at 9:20 am
Hi Karl,
I’ve been reading through all the tips here and your blog is really good. You offerer encouragement and sound advice to everyone!
My first question probably doesn’t fit the “taking-sat- too-many-times” but I hope you can help. I have applied for the QuestBridge College Match scholarship (to be announced tomorrow!). Many of the top tier universities are now offering financial aid to all applicants that fall below 60,000 income. My question is this. Assuming I’m not a finalist, and now will apply through regular decision, if you check that you need financial aid, does that put you in a different pool? I know it would depend on the school, but they’re recourses are limited, I would think.
I am applying to Princeton, University of Chicago, Columbia, & Rice. (Scores 670 reading, 720 writing, 720 math, Subject Test Math2 800. Physics 780, & History 700)
I’ve not had the opportunity to retake the SAT test, but am hoping to improve my reading. I don’t know if it’s good to say, but I’ve not studied for any of these tests. Along with just not having time with my work schedule & homework, I get easily bored in long on these tests reading about random things (I know, college will be full of this too!), but I’m not sure how much I can improve…but I will put forth my best effort. I’m a senior with the strong lopsidedness of academics and music (I play piano, bass guitar, violin, and have an awesome bass voice! – scored a 1 at State Solo last year!)
So what’s your best advise for me? Will the 670 keep me from my aspirations. (I want to be a college math professor-so need to get into a strong graduate program if I want to end up at a reputable university)
Thanks!
October 23rd, 2008 at 9:26 am
Sorry about all the typo’s in my comment! I should have put it into a word document, then pasted. The wrapping on the submit comment makes it hard to reread and edit.
October 23rd, 2008 at 10:19 am
Hi Karl,
I’m currently a high school senior (ranked second in a class of 1123 students). I really want to get into Harvard or Princeton. My SAT Scores are 720 Writing, 750 Math and 740 Reading. I took the ACT twice and scored a 34 both times. SAT II test scores 780 Math 2, 720 Chemistry, 690 US History. I have many extracurriculars.
Would you recommend taking the SAT II subject tests again? I’m not sure if those scores are high enough.
October 23rd, 2008 at 2:25 pm
Hi, Karl.
I’m a junior in high school and just took the SATs. I scored a 590 on Math, 560 on writing, but only 480 on CR — which actually surprised me, as I am an Honors student with a 3.8 GPA. Is it possible to totally bomb one section of the test? I didn’t study prior, so I know that I need to work on this area, but any tips you could provide would be very much appreciated! Thanks.
October 23rd, 2008 at 3:28 pm
Drew, Laura, and Kathy,
I am rushing out of the office to coach my two sons in soccer. I will post replies to your comments this evening. Thanks in advance for being patient.
October 24th, 2008 at 8:14 am
Tina,
It really depends on your grades, teacher recommendations, and extracurricular activities. If those are strong, you still have a shot at the schools you mentioned. By the way, the January SAT still counts for regular admission. You may want to consider an ePrep course. Good luck.
October 24th, 2008 at 8:25 am
Drew,
I agree; the wrapping is annoying. I will get on ePrep’s web development team about that. I have the luxury of being able to go behind the scenes to make edits.
Anyway, your scores are very, very respectable. Your extra-curricular “lopsidedness” will certainly help in the application process. If I were you, I would retake the SAT in December or January. With some practice, you should be able to get the CR score into the 700s and the math closer to 800.
Getting into your #1 school as an undergraduate is not a condition necessary to getting into a top tier graduate program, by the way. Just focus on doing the best you can as an undergraduate. If you distinguish during those four years, you’ll have an easy time getting into the grad school of your choice.
Good luck. The world definitely needs more good math teachers.
October 24th, 2008 at 8:32 am
Laura,
Your SAT subject test scores are fine. Whether you get admitted to Princeton or Harvard will depend on your extracurricular activities and teacher recommendations. (All of your standardized test scores are high enough, and I assume your grades are awesome.)
Regardless of where you wind up, you are definitely on the road to a very successful life. Good luck and keep up the good work.
October 24th, 2008 at 8:34 am
Kathy,
Spend time building your vocabulary. It will make a huge difference; trust me.
Good luck.
October 25th, 2008 at 6:22 am
Hi Karl,
In my junior year, I somehow maintained the perfect GPA.
Up till now, I have taken 3 SAT reasoning tests and 5 SAT 2 subjectests
OCT 2007 SAT – CR 550 M 800 W 630
JAN 2008 SAT – CR 630 M 740 W 600
OCT 2008 SAT – CR 690 M 780 W 690
Math 1C – 800 / Math 2c – 800 / Korean – 800 / Biology – 750 / Chemistry – 730
The thing is I’m not satisfied with my current SAT1 scores (highest combined: 2180).
I prepared so hard over the summer and I actually scored over 2300 several times in practice tests
Although I want to give another try in Nov 1 2008 SAT, my counserlors say I should not because my scores are good enough – which as an internatinal student, that a Korean, I don’t think so…
As an intended science major, I still need to re-take SAT science subject to raise them to 800s.
Perhaps in December?
I’m confused.
I’m applying to Darmouth, Stanford, Princeton, JHU – top schools that getting a 2300 will certainly help. I need your opinion.
Should I retake the SAT1?
October 25th, 2008 at 6:37 am
Oh, by the way, I’m applying Dartmouth ED.
Will Nov SAT scoers count anyways?
The thing I’m worried about is that my Extra Curricular is rather weak..
I’m an officer of two clubs and two councils.
I don’t have all that fancy internatinoal awards or activites.
To cover up my weakness, I have put emphasis on my academic records.
In my app, I included my quarter grade (all As), predicted IB scores (all 7s, perfect) as well as AP scores (I have taken three: Chem, Bio, Calculus All 5s)
What I hoped was that I would get at least a mid 2200 to put myself forward which didn’t happen…
October 25th, 2008 at 7:22 am
Bob,
Nov scores will be considered by Dartmouth (ED). (My wife went to Dartmouth, by the way. Great school.)
I think it would be helpful to get the CR and writing scores into the 700s. (690 is close, but even 700 would look a whole lot better. I trust you know what I mean.)
You should seriously consider ePrep’s Express course. Significant gains can be made in just a few days, especially in writing.
Your subject test scores look fine to me. Did you take the TOEFL? Let me know when you can.
October 25th, 2008 at 8:30 am
Dear Karl,
I was thinking of never taking TOEFL since all the schools I’m applying do not have the TOEFL requirments or either they waive it [eg)Cornell CR above 670 = no TOEFL required]
I made a call to Dartmouth a few days ago and they said “TOEFL is just higly recommended.”
So I thought it won’t matter with my current CR score?
Do I need to take it?
With the Korean currency going crazy at the moment, I am reluctant to take TOEFL which is 170$…
Oh by the way, what’s ePrep’s Express course?
I’m pretty okay with the multiple questions but I always get a ‘8′ in essays…such a shame
October 25th, 2008 at 7:05 pm
Hi Karl:
I am a Senior and just got my SAT results.
Taken 3 times, the best Math was 710, Wrtiting 590 and
have been stuck on 560 in Critical Reading.
I know I can do better. Should I even try for
December 2008.
October 25th, 2008 at 8:40 pm
Bob,
If you can clearly demonstrate your English fluency in you essays and other portions of the application process, don’t bother with the TOEFL. It’s not worth the money at this point.
ePrep’s express course (http://www.eprep.com/courses/sat/compare) offers students an inexpensive way to get ready for the SAT in just a few days. The course includes videos that explain the essay grading rubric and give advice on how to write a high scoring essay.
Good luck with ED at Dartmouth. Let me know how it goes.
October 25th, 2008 at 8:42 pm
Deepak,
If you think you can do better, you owe it to yourself to try. In just a few weeks, you should be able to raise the writing score significantly and break 600 on the CR.
October 25th, 2008 at 9:45 pm
Thanks Karl. So are you suggesting that I should take the SAT the 4th time then.
October 26th, 2008 at 6:52 am
If you think you can do better, Yes! There is no doubt in my mind. You want colleges to see you at your best.
October 26th, 2008 at 6:55 am
ok thanks. I will sign up for the eprep express course for Dec.
October 26th, 2008 at 2:44 pm
I am currently a high school senior in the top 10%. However, I
only have a 3.5 unweighted GPA. I’ve taken 10 honors and 3 AP
classes until now and I’m taking 4 AP classes in my senior year.
How do schools like NYU and Boston University weigh grades? Do th
they count all classes and weigh both the honors and AP classes or\
or just the APs? My UC GPA only 3.7 with the maximum 8
weighted grades. I just received my SAT scores for the October t
test and got 2070 (680CR-690M-700W-11Essay). My top schools
are NYU, Boston University and Berkeley but I really don’t want
take the SAT 1 again. I also got a 650 on the SAT11 US History
and a dismal 510 on the SAT11 Literature. I’m retaking the SAT !! L
11 Lit. in Nov. Do you think I stand a chance at the three
schools I mentioned?
Thanks.
October 26th, 2008 at 2:52 pm
i’m a senior & a johns hopkins hopeful. i took the sats three times, my best being math: 630, critical reading: 650, & writing 630. i haven’t done any test prep in between the tests, so i was thinking about taking it again. i just took the act & i’m signed up for taking the subject tests next week. any input on my chances of admission or advice?
October 26th, 2008 at 3:04 pm
other things that might help to know:
i hold leadership positions in the four sports i play & three of the clubs i’m in. my gpa is unfortunately a 3.63 & i rank in the top 15%.i’m in the IB program so i take the equivalent to seven AP classes.
thank you so much for your time.
October 26th, 2008 at 3:10 pm
Catherine,
Your scores are good, especially for someone who didn’t prepared. Your two lowest scores, math and writing, are actually the two that are easiest to increase in just a few weeks.
I suggest that you get serious about preparing and get both the math and writing into the 700s. Doing so will dramatically increase your chances at Hopkins, which you know is a top-notch school.
Given your schedule, you should probably retake the SAT reasoning test in December or January. Either test is okay for regular admissions. (I assume you are a senior.)
Good luck.
October 26th, 2008 at 3:25 pm
thank you i’ll sign up for your course asap.
October 27th, 2008 at 1:16 am
Based on the new policy of CollegeBoard ‘Score Choice’
does that mean that students can take the SATs as many times as they wish?
October 27th, 2008 at 7:08 am
Michelle,
Yes! The policy will take effect in March 2009, but it will apply retroactively to scores earned this fall and January.
October 29th, 2008 at 10:18 am
My daughter has low SAT score, 550cr,
540 writing, and 730 math.
She has 700 Chem Sat II.
Writing SAT math 2 this saturday.
she has 3.6UW/4.1W GPA.
She is trying U of Rochester, Case western, NYU,
Bryn Mawr, Penn state UPark, and rutgers.
Apart from PSU and Rutgers, I think every other
college is kind of far reach. Can you throw some
light on this. Please also suggest some good
colleges for her scores
October 29th, 2008 at 11:36 am
Vilasini,
I will check with Don Betterton, one of ePrep’s college admission experts, and get back to you as soon as I can. Thanks in advance for being patient. (I should have an answer by tomorrow.)
November 1st, 2008 at 7:14 pm
I am a senior and am having trouble deciding whether
to take the Subject Tests or the SAT Reasoning again.
I’ve taken the Reasoning Twice. Unfortunately, I know I have
not reached my potential. As a Stanford hopeful, I’m aiming
for a 2150+
March:
Reading: 530, Math: 640, Writing: 630
Total = 1800
October:
Reading: 510, Math: 730, Writing: 620
Total = 1870
SAT Composite = 1890
I took the Chemistry Subject test in May. I got a 610.
I also took Subject Tests today. My scores will probably
be around this range:
Chemistry: 620-660
Math 2c: 700-740
Physics: 650-690
By taking the SAT Reasoning Test one last time in December
and getting at least a 2150, would I increase my chances of
getting admitted into Stanford?
Or would retaking the Subject Tests be better? If I do take
Subject Tests again, I will get around:
Math2c: 780-800
Physics: 720-750
Chemistry: 700-720
What do you think?
I have extracurriculars and sports going for me but
just in standardized testing, which one would be better?
Thank for your time. I’m just a confused senior.
November 2nd, 2008 at 2:17 pm
hi im a sophomore and i just wanted to find out some info.
i want to get into uva/v-tech/jmu
my first choice is uva though
my psat scores from last year were pretty bad:
m-550
cr-500
w-530
i didnt get my scores from last year yet
but im sure i improved
also i want to know how to improve them
is uva one of the schools that averages your best sat scores?
i also want to know which sat subject tests to take
(i want to go in the medicine field)
how much emphasis shoud i put on the sats
i try to do many practice tests and i have a 4.17 GPA
and i do tons of extracurriculars, i volunteer and i play
sports.
are there any specific requirements i need to get into uva?
Thanks in advance!
November 3rd, 2008 at 7:58 am
Nicole,
The January SAT still counts for regular admission. Thus, you still have time to retake the Reasoning test and the subject tests, if you want. Since increasing both will certainly help your chances at Stanford, I think you should go for it. Good luck!
November 3rd, 2008 at 8:06 am
Soumya,
Whether you live in Virginia will have a lot to do with how hard or easy it is to get into UVA. (Generally, it is easier if you are an “in-state” candidate.)
While most schools will consider highest SAT scores, regardless of test date, you should check with each school on your college list just to make sure.
I think your PSAT scores are pretty decent, by the way. I am sure you will score much higher on the SAT, if you prepare.
As far as subject tests go, Math Level 2 and either Biology or Chemistry would be great. Most students take subject tests at the end of junior year, when the material is fresh in their minds.
Good luck and keep up the good work. Your high GPA and extracurricular activities will count for a lot in the end.
November 5th, 2008 at 8:23 am
Hi Karl,
I am a senior from India and I recently got my SAT scores.
Considering the best scores from my 2 tests, I have
800-math
710-cr
740-writing
I also gave the subject tests and am expecting
750+ in all 3(math2,chem,physics)
my extracirics
1)national medallist in swimming.
2}state level participant in the math olympiad.
however, I do not have any other EC’s. Will this hurt my
chances of getting in the most selective colleges such as
stanford,berkeley,caltech,cornell,cmu,upenn,etc.?
November 5th, 2008 at 8:32 am
sorry to bother you again
In India, we have a completely different way of grading.
We have secondary school until 10th grade,and 11th and 12th is
called “junior college”. Statistics over here have proved that
ALL students(in India) get lower grades in 11th than they get in 10th,as
everyone is in another school and the courses are much tougher.
for example, I got 91% in 10th and 81% in 11th,although with
little difference in class percentile.(top 10%)
How can I explain this to the colleges I am applying to? I dont
want them to think that I goofed up a year, because I didnt.
November 5th, 2008 at 5:53 pm
Akash,
Your standardized test scores are very high. Congratulations!
As far as ECs go, you are better off excelling in one or two than being mediocre in many. In other words, your ECs look fine and will actually help you in the admission process.
As far as grades go, don’t worry. Admission staffers in America know how to interpret the grades of Indian students. They review plenty of applications from India every year.
Good luck!
November 5th, 2008 at 9:39 pm
Hi
I already took the SAT’s 3 times and I did okay, but I think I have the potential to do much better. So I’m retaking them for the fourth time in december. I heard from a friend that if you take them more than three times colleges no longer take your highest scores from each section, instead they average all your scores in each section together and thats what they look at. Is this true or am is my friend just crazy?
November 5th, 2008 at 9:58 pm
Karl, thanks for the heads up.
But are you sure they still count January test scores?
In Stanford’s website, it clearly states that the last
acceptable SAT test date is December. Here:
http://www.stanford.edu/dept/uga/application/deadlines/index.html
I don’t really know what to do.
SAT Reasoning or Subject Tests? Which one counts more?
November 5th, 2008 at 11:45 pm
Thanks Karl!
November 6th, 2008 at 6:32 pm
Alex,
While you should check with the schools on your list individually, generally speaking, there is not limit to the number of time you can take the SAT. I do not believe that it is common practice for schools to average scores when students exceed 3 administrations.
As I stated in my video, I tutored a girl who took the SAT six times! Note: she did not do really well until her last try. She is a senior at Dartmouth this year.
The bottom line is this: If you think you can do better, you owe it to yourself to try. This way you’ll have no regrets.
Good luck with your decision.
November 6th, 2008 at 6:38 pm
Nicole,
I am glad you checked. Some schools have quirky policies.
At this point, I think you should retake the SAT Reasoning Test. Given the rigorous nature of the subject test that you took, your scores are fine.
My gut reaction to your Resoning test scores is that they are on the low side for Stanford.
Good luck with your decision. I hope my thoughts help you sort things out.
November 7th, 2008 at 7:12 am
thanks
November 7th, 2008 at 9:52 am
Karl
Did you get feedback from Admission expert on my daughter’s
chances. She wants to take SAT reasoning on Dec 6th, which is actually
4th time. Hope it doesn’t hurt her admission.
Your feedback will really help us.
——–
Vilasini said, My daughter has low SAT score, 550cr,
540 writing, and 730 math.
She has 700 Chem Sat II.
Writing SAT math 2 this saturday.
she has 3.6UW/4.1W GPA.
She is trying U of Rochester, Case western, NYU,
Bryn Mawr, Penn state UPark, and rutgers.
Apart from PSU and Rutgers, I think every other
college is kind of far reach. Can you throw some
light on this. Please also suggest some good
colleges for her scores
October 29th, 2008 at 11:36 am
Karl said, Vilasini,
I will check with Don Betterton, one of ePrep’s college admission experts, and get back to you as soon as I can. Thanks in advance for being patient. (I should have an answer by tomorrow.)
—————————-
November 8th, 2008 at 2:05 am
Hi Karl,
I would appreciate it if you could give me your opinion of my
chances at University of Washington, Boston University and NYU.
I have an unweighted GPA of 3.5 taking all AP and Honors
classes. I scored a 2070 on the SAT 1 and got a 650 on the SAT
11 US History, and 510 on SAT11 Lit. which I just retook and
think I will get at least a score of 600.
Thank you.
November 8th, 2008 at 5:11 pm
Vilasini,
Sorry for the delay. Don was out of his office traveling the last several days.
Assuming that your daughter takes rigorous classes, participates in at least a couple of extracurricular activities, and is well liked by her teachers, Don agrees with your assessment.
NYU is a solid reach.
Bryn Mawr and Rochester are each a reach.
Case Western is a bit of a reach.
Penn State and Rutgers are both likely.
Others schools to consider are:
Muhlenberg
Northeastern
Skidmore
Fordham
American
Stevens Tech
Providence
Emerson
Boston University
I hope this helps. Good luck.
November 8th, 2008 at 5:48 pm
John,
I’m not sure if you meant Washington U or University of Washington. Anyway,
here’s what I think:
NYU is a reach.
Washington U is a reach.
BU and University of Washington are both “matches” (i.e., likely).
I hope this helps.
November 10th, 2008 at 5:34 pm
Thanks. I did mean University of Washington. Do you it think
will help much that I’m in the top 10% of my class, and do
private colleges weigh AP and honors classes? What do you
my chances are at Fordham, American, Tulane and the top 5 or 6
UCs. I am a CA resident.
Thanks for your time.
November 11th, 2008 at 9:22 am
John,
I think Fordham, American, and Tulane are “matches” for you.
Also, while the top UCs are very tough to get into, your residency status will certainly help.
You should consider taking either the Math Level 1 or 2 subject test. (Doing so might balance the low Lit score.)
Your top 10% status certainly helps. Your grades, and the rigor of your schedule, will be weighted heavily in the admission process. Keep your grades up (at least until the end of the second marking period). Good luck.
November 12th, 2008 at 4:07 pm
Hello Again Karl,
Just wanted to update you. I did make it to the next level and am a questbridge finalist!
I have a question I hope you can answer for me. Today I received my ACT scores and was wondering if you could shed some light on just how ACT compares to SAT from an admissions officer point of view. I think the ACT test is easier and so perhaps my scores are similar enough not to warrant the extra expense in requesting my ACT scores to be sent. (The ACT does their score reports much different, I had to wait to scores come in to change where to send, unlike the SAT). It’s a time line factor in that decisions my admissions officers are occurring now.
I don’t know if there’s a significant difference.
My Scores: ACT 34 (English 30, math 36, reading 34 science 35).
SAT CR 670, Writing 720, Math 720
SATII Math2 800 Physics 780, & History 700
Recap: The schools already have my SAT scores, but not my ACT scores.
Thanks for your help.
Drew
November 12th, 2008 at 5:22 pm
Drew,
Congratulations on becoming a QuestBridge College Match finalist.
As far as ACT/SAT scores go, this is how I would compare the scores:
ACT English 30 = SAT 670; you scored 720. Thus, ACT is 50 points lower than SAT.
ACT Math 36 = SAT 800; you scored 720. Thus, ACT is 80 points higher than SAT.
ACT Reading 34 = SAT 710; you scored 670. Thus, ACT is 40 points higher than SAT.
Overall, your ACT was 70 points higher. Not a big difference.
When you consider only math and reading, however, which many colleges do, you are 120 points higher on the ACT. This is significant in my opinion.
I would have the ACT scores sent to colleges. Good luck with your decision.
November 13th, 2008 at 12:22 am
Hello. I am a freshman at Arizona State, but I would like to apply
as a transfer student to either Georgetown or Rice University.
I’m not sure if I will get accepted though. I did poorly on my
SATs in highschool (640cr, 640writing, 540math). I had a 3.8 in
highschool, but it wasn’t that great of a school. I have fairly
good grades right now, but I have two b’s overall. Also, my school is
huge so I’m not sure how I’m going to get a recommendation from
a professor. Finally, I was captain of speech and debate, president
of National Honors Society, was youth of the year, and citizen of the
year, but now that I’m in college, I have yet to be involved
in anything. Are my chances of getting admitted pretty much
abysmal?
November 13th, 2008 at 7:49 am
Sasha,
Your best bet is to contact both Georgetown and Rice. Transfer students are typically taken on an “as-needed” basis. Thus, if a bunch of current students at those schools drop out for academic, financial, or personal reasons, you may be in luck. Don’t loose hope. You should at least contact the schools and let them know you are interested. The most important factor will be your grades, and you have proven that you can do college-level work. Good luck. Let me know how it goes.
November 20th, 2008 at 6:01 am
Hello Karl,
I’ve been reading this blog from top to bottom and
I have found every piece of information you have
given here very helpful. Thank you very much.
Could you give me an idea of how much chance I
would stand to being accepted with my stats at the
following universities?
I am an International student,(Chinese)and I’m
currently doing the IB Diploma.
SAT scores:
1st time:
CR: 580
Math: 800
WR: 720
Essay 10
2nd time:
CR: 630
Math: 730
WR: 740
Essay: 11
SAT Subject Test
Japanese: 770
Math IIC: 750
IB predicted grade: 3 7’s and 3 6’s
Extracurricular: Student Council President,
Yearbook Co-editor, Head Girl, MUN etc.
Universities:
UC Berkeley
UCLA
New York University
University of Pennsylvania
University of Michigan
Stanford University
Cornell University
I don’t have any particularly honorable awards
(only intramural academic awards, and only a few
piano 1st places)
My SAT scores aren’t that impressive. And as
an intl’ student I heard it is difficult
for me to be accepted in public ones
i.e. Berkeley, U of M,
Do you think I should apply to a less selective
school?
I would really appreciate it if you could give me
some professional comments. Sorry about the length.
and Thanks in advance.
November 20th, 2008 at 5:57 pm
Naomi,
I would like to check with Don Betterton before I post a reply. I will call Don tomorrow. Thanks for being patient.
November 21st, 2008 at 2:17 pm
Karl,
I took my SAT this Oct and i heard about the new policy
college board implement. I would like to know does this
policy apply on me.
November 21st, 2008 at 9:15 pm
Noah,
Yes it will. The new policy will apply retroactively starting in March of 2009.
November 22nd, 2008 at 3:24 pm
Naomi,
Thanks for being patient. While you are an impressive student, please remember that the colleges on your list are among the most selective.
You have about a 1 in 3 chance with each of the following schools: Cal, UCLA, Penn, and Cornell.
Your chances at Stanford are slimmer.
I would say 50/50 at NYU and a bit better at Michigan.
You should definitely add a few more less selective schools to your list. Good luck.
November 22nd, 2008 at 9:53 pm
Karl,
Thank you very much!
I will definitely look at more less selective
schools.
I was also wondering how colleges weighed
TOEFL scores?
So if an intl’ student had a relatively high SAT,
would a low 100 on the iBT TOEFL affect
admission chances?
Sorry for the followup.
November 23rd, 2008 at 7:28 am
Hi Karl,
I was hoping you’d rate my chances of getting into the following
colleges given my stats, and recommend some other colleges if
these colleges are a reach.
Colleges:
1.UPENN
2.UCB
3.Caltech
4.Stanford
5.Carnegie Mellon
6.M.I.T.
7.Cornell
My Stats:
SAT
CR:710 MATH:800 Writing:740
SAT Subject
MATH level 2:800 Chemistry:800 Physics:800
Grades:
First class and distinction in almost everything(equivalent to
a 3.8 to 3.9 GPA)
EC’s and awards:
1.National Medalist in swimming
2.Participant in State Level Math Olympiad
3.Captain of school swimming team
4.First in school in 10th standard board exams.
I have little volunteering experience; I have no documents
or certificates to back up what few hours of volunteering
I did.
Thanks in advance for helping me out.
I really appreciate it as there are few people here in India
that are knowledgeable about this kind of stuff.
November 23rd, 2008 at 8:49 am
Naomi,
The more fluent you are, the more you will distinguish yourself from the other students applying to American colleges from China. So here’s my advice on dealing with the low TOEFL score:
If the colleges on your list do not require you to send TOEFL scores, don’t send them. Some colleges allow international students with high writing and CR SAT scores to rely on those scores to demonstrate English fluency. Your SAT scores will certainly be high enough for many schools. You should check the policy of each school on a case-by-case basis.
November 23rd, 2008 at 8:53 am
Akash,
Clearly you have done well in school. I wouldn’t worry about the lack of volunteer service. It will not make a difference in the end.
If you manage to get recruited for swimming, you will be accepted by each of the schools on your list. You should definitely contact the swimming coach at each school.
If you are not recruited for swimming, you prospects change considerably. Remember, you are competing for spots at the most selective American universities with other extremely talented students from India. You probably have a 50/50 chance at each of the schools on your list.
I hope this helps.
November 23rd, 2008 at 11:15 am
Thanks for your advice and insights. I definitely have a better
idea of my chances and where I stand now.
November 23rd, 2008 at 3:02 pm
Karl,
I have been reading this blog with great interest since my daughter asked whether or not she should take the SAT for a third time. She is a senior and National Merit Semifinalist. She took the SATs in May and scored 750 CR, 670 M, 650 W. She took them again in November and scored 750 CR, 630 M, and 790 W. In October, she took one Subject test (history) and scored 750. She is planning to take 2 more subject tests in December. Currently, she’s signed up for Literature and Spanish. Would it be better for her to take the SAT1 again to try (again) to bring up that math score or to take the MAthII subject test? Interestingly, she has always done well in math and is currently taking AP Calculus with an A average.
Thanks so much!
November 23rd, 2008 at 4:03 pm
Lee,
If your daughter is currently earning an A in AP Calc, she will be better off taking one of the SAT math subject tests. Both Level 1 and 2 are very straightforward. If she prepares (quickly), she should be able to break the 700 mark. (My gut tells me she can handle the Level 2.)
I would go to Barnes & Noble or another big bookstore and pick up a copy of “The Official SAT Subject Tests in Mathematics Levels 1 & 2.” The book has two Level 1 and two Level 2 practice tests. Your daughter should complete as many practice tests before test day as possible. Doing so will make a big difference.
I hope my advice helps. Good luck!
(By the way, your daughter’s current scores are awesome. I’m sure you’re very proud of her. My oldest child is in 6th grade; we’ll see what happens in a few years.)
November 23rd, 2008 at 5:26 pm
Thanks so much for your thoughtful answer. I have one additional question: Is there a reason you recommended “The Official SAT Subject Tests…” rather than a similar book published by Kaplan or Princeton Review?
November 24th, 2008 at 8:11 am
Lee,
Because it’s the “official” study guide, the practice tests are, by definition, the most realistic and best available. Thus, if your daughter practices from this book, she will have a good sense of how she will score on Dec. 6th. Please don’t hesitate to post follow-up questions.
November 26th, 2008 at 12:07 pm
Hi Karl,
This is a GREAT site. I wish we found it earlier. Excellent advice. I have a question re: my daughter. She is currently a senior. She has some high goals for colleges. She top choices are: Yale, Johns Hopkins, Columbia, cornell, Stanford, Penn, etc. She is an excellent students, having taken the most rigorious courses at school (a gifted school) with 10 AP courses, and all others honors. GPA is 3.8. Her test score is not the greatest, however. Highest scores by supercore is 2170 (M: 680, V: 740, W: 750). She has already taken it 3 times, and we don’t think she will increase her math score that much (1st time: 660, 2nd time: 670, 3rd time: 680) even though she is gifted in math and has already finished AP Calculus BC in junior. Therefore, we don’t think she will take it for the 4th time in Dec or Jan. What do you think her chances will be at these competitive colleges? She is extremely engaged in school (Student Body President, university research intern, 500+ hours of community service. What else would you suggest for her to do? THanks.
November 26th, 2008 at 4:15 pm
Ella,
You must be very proud of your daughter. She has certainly accomplished a lot in school . . . and life. (While I’m not convinced that her SAT math score is stuck at 680, I certainly respect her decision to forgo taking the test one last time.)
Given her current statistics, she has about a 50/50 chance at the top-tier schools on her list. Please note that I’m not saying that she will be admitted by half of them. Rather, she has a 50/50 chance at each school. It all depends on how many students just like your daughter apply to each of the schools on her list.
Back in 1986, I was admitted to Princeton but not Columbia. I’m not really sure what happened.
As far as what to do next, your daughter should relax. There is not much more she can do at this point. Good luck. Please do not hestitate to post follow-up questions.
November 27th, 2008 at 12:13 am
Hi Karl,
Many thanks for the quick response, even on the day before Thanksgiving! Based on what you said, you would suggest for her to take the SAT the 4th time to bring up her math score? She has done a lot of prep already: went through a Princeton Review course, the whole College Board Official SAT Test book (the big blue one), Barraon 2400, Princeton Review 11 Practice Tests, Gruber’s Complete SAT Guide. She studied hard, but yet have to crack the 700 mark in math, which we can’t figure out why since she is gifted in math and has already completed AP Calculus BC last year. Thanks for the help. Your advice gave her some hope. Some of the web sites we have gone to basically say that unless a student’s SAT is at least 2250 (better yet in 2300 range), there is really no chance for the admission officer at selective colleges to be looking at your application. It is pretty scary….
November 29th, 2008 at 11:13 am
Ella,
I try not to push ePrep too much on the blog, but I do think ePrep for the SAT is better than any of the options you listed in your last comment. They each have shortcoming that I won’t bother getting into now. Anyway, you may want to consider ePrep for the SAT for your daughter. Good luck.
December 6th, 2008 at 4:35 pm
Dear Karl,
Your responses to the students on this blog are as impressive as they are insightful. Having said that, I hope you will be able to determine the probability of my admission into the nation’s (and probably the world’s) most competitive schools.
I am a male high school senior who is considering Harvard University as a top pick for the Fall 09’ Term. Over the course of my high school years I have maintained one of the highest GPAs in my extremely competitive graduating class making me rank 5 out of 705 (the top 1% of my class). Upon termination of the year, I will have completed 7 AP Courses—the hardest ones available at my school which include Calculus BC and Physics B (very tough indeed). In addition, I received the AP Scholar Award, given by College Board, for having a 3 or higher on every AP Exam that I have taken so far.
In addition to academics I have quite a few extra-curricular activities (school wise):
- clubs: Key Club, Bio-Med Society, Paws out For Humanity, and Asian Society
- Intel Science Talent Research Program (involves many papers and lab work)
- “The Challenge” T.V. game show (I was part of a four member academic team representing my high school in a competition of academics, current events, and pop culture—the episode airs in January on local television)
- Ocean Bowl 2009 (regional competition concerning all aspects of oceanography—will occur in February and if we win, we go to nationals)
I have also accomplished much outside of school.
- Boy Scouts of America (I am an Eagle Scout and have received the Eagle Scout Award, a recognition that only about 10% of all scouts receive)
- vascular research lab assistant (for Intel)
- volunteer for local hospital and occasionally city park
- work experience (I worked about two summers ago)
- Leadership: Senior Patrol Leader of my troop (in the Boy Scouts) and Deacon Quorum President (presiding over about 14 youth in my church)
- Talents: I sing (tenor in my church choir), play the piano, and draw (I’m going to send my best artwork in a small portfolio to schools that will accept them as a supplement)
In an objective point of view, I think I have done more than the average high school student and have maintained rather high grades. The only problem I see will be my SAT scores:
CR – 670
M – 700
W – 620
My SAT II Subject scores are:
Spanish -750
Math 1 – 760
Physics – 580 (too low for my liking, I think I was really tired when I took it)
I just took the December SAT I and since you stated in some of the previous posts on this blog that the December SAT usually has one the highest curves, I am hopeful my scores will be a little higher when I get them on the 23rd of this month. I guess I’m lopsided towards academics and extra curriculars—but not standardized tests.
I’m thinking about taking the SAT II U.S. History exam in January, do you think this is a good idea? (I find history easy and I still remember a lot from AP US History from junior year) I really don’t like that 580 in my scores.
I’m sorry for writing a lot but if I can hear from someone with experience in this, I’ll be less anxious.
P.S. Did I mention that I’m a first generation college student with two brothers already in college? (I heard this improves chances of getting admitted)
December 6th, 2008 at 4:50 pm
I meant to emphasize, on my last post, that the schools I’m really pushing for are Harvard and Dartmouth (both have the majors I’m looking for). What can you say about my chances of getting in based on the information I gave?
Thanks for the help.
December 8th, 2008 at 2:48 pm
Ariel,
I just returned from a weekend away (no internet!). I will post a reply for you tomorrow. Thanks for being patient.
December 9th, 2008 at 6:45 pm
Ariel,
I didn’t have an opportunity to consult with Don today. I will call him tomorrow and post a comment. (Don is the real admission expert.)
December 9th, 2008 at 8:27 pm
Oh there’s no rush…but I appreciate your haste
Thanks again for doing me the favor!
December 11th, 2008 at 3:13 pm
Ariel,
I just had a short conversation with Don. Based on what you included in your original post, you have only a slim chance of being admitted by either Harvard or Dartmouth. Please keep in mind that this opinion is based solely on the little you shared about yourself. If you wind up getting recruited for a sport, for example, your chances will improve dramatically.
The bottom line is that a school like Harvard will receive about 5,000 applications this year from students with credentials just like yours. I hope your college list includes some good, but less selective schools.
Please do not hesitate to post follow-up questions or comments. Good luck.
December 11th, 2008 at 4:18 pm
Yes I have other easier to get into schools, those were just reaches. Thanks for the honest answer!
December 23rd, 2008 at 1:05 pm
Dear Karl,
I have taken the SAT2 subject test for Math twice now and am not
satisfied with my scores. On the most recent test I did not skip
any and the answers that I had, felt good. However, I only scored
a 740. I thought I had done my best and that I would get a perfect
score. I have practiced for this test for many months and my
parents and I are both dissatisfied of my score. I don’t know
how I can raise my score because it seemed like I had done my
best. I am a freshman in high school so I have plenty of time
to retake it, however, I am taking Calculus AB currently and
I am afraid that I will forget all the pre-cal concepts on the
test. Should I take it again? And if I do when should I take it?
How should I study in order for me to get a better score?
Shawn
December 23rd, 2008 at 4:20 pm
Shawn,
I bet you made a few careless errors. The only problem is that you might not be able to do much about it right now. Let me explain:
Your brain is a physical organ in your body, and, like the rest of your body, it will mature with time at its own pace. Most humans finish maturing physically when they are around 18 years old. Thus, your “freshman” brain might be smart, and it might have a whole lot of potential, but it is not yet at full capacity. What I mean is that in two or three years, your brain will be capable of processing information (and avoiding careless errors!) much better than it can now.
If you do not have the patience to wait for your junior or senior year, wait at least to the end of this year. Most students take subject tests in June. Within the next couple of months, ePrep will be launching a study program for the math level 2 SAT subject test. You may want to wait for it.
Good luck. Please do not hesitate to post follow-up questions or comments.
December 24th, 2008 at 2:48 pm
Ok thanks!
Are there any key activities I should do over the next few years
before i go to college? I want to attend to a Ivy League or a
top notch college and I want to eventually major in law,
government, or international relations.
What extracurricular activities should I do in order to achieve
my goals?
I already do three clubs: MUN, Speech and Debate, and Key club
Play basketball
Play the piano and drums
Have volunteered at the library for several years now and also
volunteer at my city’s court house.
Should I take a internship somewhere or do something else?
Thanks Karl
December 25th, 2008 at 11:16 am
Hello. I think this website is a great resource.
How similar is the PSAT to the SAT, in terms of difficulty.
I’m a junior and I received a score of 193. To me, this is a rather low score.
CR – 60
M – 64
W – 69
I will be taking the SAT I for the first time in January.
Do you have any advice?
Thank you very much.
December 25th, 2008 at 3:37 pm
Hello,
I would just like to say I appreciate the advice you give here.
I am a high school student (Junior) aspiring to attend an Ivy league.
I attend a competitive, relatively high ranking high school where I am taking 5 AP Classes, in addition to Calculus CD (College math class).
I have almost Straight A’s (a few B’s).
I have scored 5s on all AP exams so far and hope to continue doing so.
I scored 800 in SAT Chemistry, 790 in Math II, and am planning on taking the Physics, Biology, and US History tests.
I took the SAT once and scored 2150, but am enrolled in a prep class now and I hope to score in the 2250+ range.
I am/have:
Black Belt in Karate, and have won several medals from local tournaments.
President of School science club, where I train people for The Chemistry, Biology, Physics Olympiads, as well as organize the Physics bowl and Brain bee teams.
I am a Biology Olympiad Semifinalist, and am going to participate in all the other listed competitions above this year.
I am on the School International Autonomous Robotics Competition Team, and We got First Place last year.
School BotBall team (another robotics competition)
Science olympiad for 2 years with various medals, but only regional.
I won second place in regional science fair for biotechnology last year.
I am an AIME qualifier (math competition), and have taken several other mathematics competitions.
Honestly, What do you think my chances for getting into the top Ivy Leagues are?
I know people from my school with higher credentials than me who have gotten into Stanford and Harvard.
Thanks in advance for your advice
December 25th, 2008 at 3:38 pm
I for got to mention I also know people with higher credentials who have gotten rjected from these schools
December 25th, 2008 at 6:12 pm
Hello,
Will it be too late for application for colleges to turn in?
Im only taking my SAT test on febuary and on top of that i
haven’t got any idea what university i want to attend but i
do know i want to go to a great university who let average
students like me enrolled.Im just scared that im not going to
do well on my SAT and i’ll have to retake again .
December 28th, 2008 at 2:41 pm
Hello,
I’m a junior who too the December SAT. I got my score the other
day and got a 1720. I was pretty disappointed because over the
summer I took a SAT prep class and it didn’t really seem to
do much. I really want to go to a UC, and I feel like this
isn’t a good enough score. How many times do you suggest I take
the SAT, considering I still have to take my subject tests.
Also can I take my subject tests as a senior and still submit
the scores?
January 3rd, 2009 at 3:20 pm
Shawn Lee,
Rather than do too many activities, I encourage you to pick the ones you like best and truly dedicate yourself to them. Colleges are looking for students who understand what it means to be deeply committed to something. In deciding on activities, I suggest you follow your interests and stick with what you like best, regardless of whether you think it will help you get admitted three years from now. Good luck.
January 3rd, 2009 at 3:23 pm
Hinde,
The SAT and PSAT are very similar with regard to level of difficulty. The SAT is longer, however, and includes a hand-written essay.
In preparation for the January test, I encourage you to complete at least one full-length practice SAT test. Good luck.
January 3rd, 2009 at 3:27 pm
Sam,
You sound like an outstanding candidate for any college, even the most selective. It is clear that you have gone way above and beyond the call of duty with regard to academics and extracurricular activities. Keep up the good work. I think you will be a strong contender at every top-tier college. Good luck. Let me know how it goes and please do not hesitate to post follow-up questions.
January 3rd, 2009 at 3:30 pm
Sam,
I got into Princeton, but not Columbia. In a lot of ways, college admissions is a crapshoot. You are, however, setting yourself up to have some pretty amazing options. Again, good luck.
January 3rd, 2009 at 3:37 pm
Charmaine,
Don’t worry; I’m sure you will do fine in March.
Regardless of your next SAT scores, you should apply to a few colleges that do not require SAT scores and a few that do “rolling” admissions. (Your March scores may be too late for some schools.) You should check the admission requirements of each college that interests you on a case-by-case basis.
Good luck.
January 3rd, 2009 at 3:40 pm
Alice,
Feel free to take the SAT one or two more times. Colleges will consider your highest combination, anyway. You may want to consider enrolling in an ePrep study program. Most ePrep students exceed our score increase guarantees.
You should take subject tests in June while the material is fresh in your mind.
Good luck!
January 4th, 2009 at 8:10 pm
Thanks Karl. Also, in the last couple weeks I have been doing several practice tests from a Princeton Review book. I have done at least 8 so far and my scores all average from 670 to 780 for all three sections. How similar are these tests to the real SAT.
I will be taking it for the first time in January.
January 4th, 2009 at 10:45 pm
Hinde,
I do not think the Princeton Review practice tests are very accurate. You are better off with the Official SAT Study Guide from the College Board. You can buy the book online from the College Board or most other online book distributors.
January 7th, 2009 at 8:23 pm
Hello Karl. It’s me again. I was wondering if you could give me an answer concerning general admissions, you know, given your experience.
So does competition vary among different majors in the college of arts and sciences? I have read that competition does vary among colleges i.e. engineering & arts/science on Berkeley’s website. But from the availability of the “undeclared” major option, I got the feeling that major selection doesn’t really have a huge weight on admissions. Could you give me some headsup? Application filing periods are over, but I am very curious. Thanks!
January 8th, 2009 at 9:21 am
Naomi,
I was admitted by Princeton, but not Columbia years ago when I applied to college. I think my success/failure had something to do with the fact that I applied for liberal arts at Princeton and engineering at Columbia.
Whenever I meet girls who are very strong in math/science, I encourage them to consider applying to the top schools for math/science. (Most schools like to keep a healthy balance between men and women in the student body. Because, traditionally, fewer women show interest in math and science programs, colleges have trouble maintaining the healthy male/female ratio in those departments.) In other words, as a girl, it is likely that you will improve your chances of admission, if you compete within an admission pool that is “starving” for women. (You can always change your mind once you’ve enrolled.)
All that being said: If you really don’t like math or the sciences (or you’re not a strong student in the math and/or sciences), apply in a way that is consistent with your strengths/interests and hope for the best.
I hope my thoughst help. Please do not hesitate to post follow-up questions.
January 8th, 2009 at 7:36 pm
Thanks for the fast reply!
By engineering and liberal arts, did you mean two different schools, or majors? If you meant colleges, i.e. College of arts and sciences, College of Engineering, I was wondering if applying for diff majors altered chances of being admitted?
Science is definitely good news to me! I applied to biology/neuroscience majors at “dream” schools i.e. Cornell, UPENN, Stanford, (all three of which I discovered, to my dismay, have strong biology programs), however I have heard that it is easier to be accepted if one applied for the so called “less popular” majors. For example, my friend told me that her friend got accepted by Yale by applying to Journalism which was considered less popular at the uni. Is this true?
Thanks again!
January 8th, 2009 at 9:54 pm
Sorry for being confusing. To sum it up, my question is, while competition exists among the colleges I apply to i.e. College of Engineering, College of Arts and Sciences, does it exist among majors within a college, specifically the College of Arts and Sciences?
January 9th, 2009 at 10:24 am
Naomi,
Yes, to a certain degree. While high school students do not apply for specific majors at colleges and universities, admission officers will consider the likelihood that applicants will ultimately select certain majors. In other words, if (through your application essays, for example) you indicate a very keen interest in studying neuroscience, you will likely land yourself in the “women-who-are-likely-to-choose-a-science-major” applicant pool. Your academic credentials, for admission purposes, will then be compared only to other women in the same applicant pool. If a college wants 40 women per grade to major in the sciences and only 35 women so apply your year, you’re in! (Assuming, of course, that your academic qualifications are in the right range.)
I hope this helps. Again, do not hesitate to post follow-up questions.
January 9th, 2009 at 10:43 pm
Thanks very much for your detailed answer!
January 11th, 2009 at 5:54 pm
Hi Karl,
I just applied to Boston University and George Washington
University which I believe should be matches for me. They both
asked for a list of the other colleges I’m a applying to.
I’m applying to 14 schools including 5 UC’s and I listed about
7 schools on each supplement. They included my reaches such as
Stanford and UC Berkeley, matches such as American, Tulane
UC Davis and University of Washington. I didn’t list my
safeties which are Univ. of Oregon and UC Santa Cruz. I realize i
it’s too late to change anything, but do you think I did the
right thing by leaving out the safeties and including the reach
schools? I’m pretty sure they were both optional, so do you
it will have any effect on my chances of admission?
Thanks
January 12th, 2009 at 3:36 pm
Emily,
Don’t worry about it. Some schools ask about other colleges in order to gage whether applicants are likely to accept their offers to enroll. For example, if you were a student with perfect scores and outstanding extracurricular activities and awards, the admission staff at Boston University might not accept you if they knew you were applying to Stanford, Harvard, Princeton, and Yale. They would assume that you would get into, and attend, one of those other schools.
Why, you might ask, wouldn’t they just accept you. (Who cares whether, or not, you ultimately enroll?)
The answer has to do with what’s called “yield.” A school’s yield for a given year is the percent of students accepted who acutally enroll. The higher the yield, the better schools rank in US News and World Report’s annual rankings. Thus, it’s all a big game.
The likelihood that this will have a negative impact on you is pretty slim. Most schools have eliminated such application questions over the years. The whole practice is an exercise in guesswork and most schools have decided that it’s a waste of precious time. The schools that still ask the question are those that likely haven’t bothered to update their applications.
I hope this helps.
January 19th, 2009 at 5:47 pm
“Based on the new policy of CollegeBoard ‘Score Choice’
does that mean that students can take the SATs as many times as they wish?”
Does Score Choice also apply for SAT Subject tests?
January 20th, 2009 at 8:25 am
Michelle,
Yes, you can take the SAT as many times as you want and Score Choice will allow you to send colleges only the scores you want them to consider.
I’m not sure about the subject tests. Give me a day to figure it out. I will post an answer when I have one.
January 21st, 2009 at 9:38 am
Michelle,
Yes, Score Choice does apply to SAT subject tests.
January 23rd, 2009 at 9:15 pm
Hey Karl,
Me again.
So I have taken the SAT two times so far.
And I am taking it again tomorrow for the third time.
First Score: 680 CR 660 Math 600 Writing
Second Score: 700 CR 640 Math 770 Writing
On my second try on the ACT, I got a 31.
29 Writing
32 Math
28 Science
36 Reading
Which score should I think about sending in if I do not do better
on the this final SAT test?
Also,
It seems like everybody who has been admitted into the Ivy Leagues,
especially Harvard or Stanford, have done extraordinary things.
I feel incompetent just because i was never on the Olympic Swim team or
discovered a cell.
I am 3.8 unweighted GPA student.
I am Vice president of Student Council
Vice President of National Honor Society
Choir for 4 years
For both junior and senior year, I have been doing PSEO classes
at the University of Minnesota and have done reasonably well.
What are my chances of getting into a college like Harvard or Standford?
Thanks!
January 24th, 2009 at 8:21 am
Anya,
I think you should send both scores because both reflect well on you. If you’re bent on only sending one, send the second. (This assumes that you don’t do even better today.)
As far as your chances at Harvard and Stanford go, they are slim but please note two things:
(1) they are slim for about 15,000 other well-qualified applicants; and (2) they are not zero.
What I’m trying to say is that you should feel really good about what you’ve accomplished in the first 17-18 years of your life. Whether you get into Harvard or Stanford will not change the fact that you have set yourself up for amazing success in life. Congratulations. Stay positive and keep up the good work. If you need a job after college, you can always send an application to ePrep!
January 27th, 2009 at 1:56 pm
Hey I wanted to know if my SAT scores isn’t that good like it’s lower than the requirement , could I still be enrolled in a university and also does foreign language matter
January 27th, 2009 at 3:44 pm
Tiaretiare,
Colleges and universities post SAT score ranges to help guide students during the application process. Please note two things: First, if your score is within the range of a given school, you are not guaranteed admission. Second, if your score is below the range of a given school, you are not automatically rejected. Posted SAT ranges should only be used as guidlines.
I am not sure what you meant by “does foreign language matter?” Please clarify.
January 27th, 2009 at 9:06 pm
Thank you and what I meant is universities always ask for two or four foreign languages but through my high school year , I’ve onlytaken one , does it really matter ?
January 27th, 2009 at 9:34 pm
Tiaretiare,
One foreign language is fine. That being said, you should have studied that one foreign language for at least a couple of years in high school.
February 12th, 2009 at 10:14 pm
I have taken the SAT 4 times – twice as a junior and twice as a senior. Each time that I took it my score increased by a significant amount. My first combined score in the fall of my junior year was 2010 and my last combined score in January my senior year was 2250 (CR 770, M 730, W750 e12). I mainly attribute the increase to academic growth and test familiarity. My SAT Subject test scores that I took in June following my Junior year were 800 Chem 800 US History and 760 Math II. I have been involved in music for many(10+ years) (piano, voice and composition), am on a varsity sport and am pres of our debate club and have been very involved in many EC’s for numerous years. First I am applying to H,Y,P,C — do you think that taking the SAT I 4 times will reflect poorly on me? I just did not feel until this last time the my scores reflected my capability. Also do you think I have a chance at being admitted to one of these reach schools? Thanks so very much for your input — this is a pretty stressful and uncertain time. I have also applied to other schools, but the above are definitely the ones I would love to attend!
February 12th, 2009 at 10:35 pm
Nary, Your SAT improvement tells a great story: You set academic goals and stay committed to them. Any college would be lucky to have a student like you. The thing you have to keep in mind about P,H,Y,C, however, is that they each receive thousands of applications annually from students as talented as you. While all of you are capable of doing well at highly selective colleges, only a small fraction will be admitted. Regardless of whether you are actually admitted by one of your reach schools, you have already distinguished yourself from 99% of the population. In other words, you have already set yourself up for an adult/professional life that will be rich with success.
Congratulations, Nary, and good luck in April! Please let me know how it goes. Oh, I almost forgot, don’t forget to enjoy senior spring with your friends. You’ve worked hard and deserve to relax a bit too.
February 12th, 2009 at 10:50 pm
Karl, Thank you so much for your kind words and your input. I will definitely enjoy the rest of the year and let you know how things turn out!
February 15th, 2009 at 7:54 pm
I am a junior and I just received the scores from the January SAT and they are as follows. So the overall score is 2030.
CR 640
M 650
W 740
I plan to take the SAT again on May 2nd. I’m aiming for schools like Penn and Columbia. What do you suggest I do this time around to improve my scores?
February 16th, 2009 at 3:27 pm
I am taking AP Macro-Economics, second semester senior year. My
high school is “calling” it Honors Principles of American
Democracy because my school district requires a Government
class to graduate. I also dropped AP Spanish (but I have 1st
year college credit for Spanish and have sent college
transcripts to colleges), I also dropped an electronic music
class and added Intro to Psychology. On my secondary school
report I had listed AP Macro-Econ so now it will look like I
dropped 2 AP classes. My high school counselor suggested that
I write a letter to the colleges I applied to explaining the
change in the name of my Ap Macro-Econ class. I have already
been accepted to a selective University and offered a large
merit scholarship. I haven’t accepted yet because I’m waiting
to hear from about 10 other schools. I’m afraid that the school
I was accepted to might rescind their offer of admittance and/
or the scholarship once they receive my mid-year report. My
weighted GPA remained the same but unweighted dropped a little.
Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
February 17th, 2009 at 8:00 am
Emily,
It is highly unlikely that the college that accepted you will rescind its offer. Cases in which colleges rescind offers involve incidents like cheating, getting arrested, or failing courses. To be honest, I don’t think what you have described will even be noted by the school that accepted you. If you write a letter explaining things, you run the risk of creating a problem for yourself. In any case, the school will likely give you a chance to explain yourself before it simply recinds the offer of admission or any merit-based scholarship.
I hope my thoughts help put you at ease. Good luck. Please let me know how things go in April.
February 17th, 2009 at 8:05 am
Hinde,
Keep doing practice tests and keep building your vocabulary. You have a good chance of getting the Math and CR to the 700 mark. Doing so will make a big difference. You need to simply push yourself and hold yourself to a higher standard. I absolutely think you can break 2100 if you put your mind to it. Good luck.
February 17th, 2009 at 6:52 pm
Thanks Karl. I’m going to take your advice and not send a letter
explaining the changes in my classes. Do you think the same
advice holds for the other schools that will be receiving my
mid-year reports, that haven’t made an admissions decision yet?
Thanks again.
February 18th, 2009 at 9:20 am
Emily, I do think the same advice holds true for the other schools. Just stay focused on doing well in school and having some fun over the next few months. Again, let me know how things go in April.
February 20th, 2009 at 5:49 pm
Thank you very much for the advice Karl. I am aiming for a 2300, though I know this will be very difficult.
February 20th, 2009 at 8:13 pm
Go for it, Hinde.
February 27th, 2009 at 12:04 am
So… I’m trying to get an idea of my chances of getting in to certain colleges. I’m thinking… Top Engineering Schools (MIT, Stanford, etc) or an Ivy League school.
I’m a freshman, so I’m kind of projecting some things. Just trying to get a basic idea of my options … Not a definite analysis.
Based on my performance so far… I’m expecting these credentials:
SAT-
CR- 675-725
W- 700-750
M- 750-800
ACT Overall 33-36
SAT Subject Tests
I’m not 100% sure about these, but I’ll probably take a Math subject test and Physics, and a Latin test if one exists. Possibly more, but I honestly don’t know
I will have 4 years experience in national competition in Speech and Debate, with good results.
I am one of the top math students in my state, and I will have done quite a few competitions. Most recently, I placed 2nd in the state in a Geometry written competition, and hopefully similar results will continue
I will have 4 years experience in Quiz Bowl- 2 years JV, 2 years Varsity
I will have at least 100 service hours (required by the school
I participate in the Duke T.I.P. program (I’m not sure if you’re familiar with it)
And there could be more things that come up, of course. Those are just a few of the ’strong points’ in my resume.
Basically, if my application is something like that, will that put me in a competitive position when compared to other Top School applicants?
PS- What would you say my strong points are? Are things like Speech and Debate beneficial to college application? Is the Duke T.I.P. program a positive thing for my resume? Do colleges “like” things such as math competitions when looking for students?
Thanks,
Blake
February 27th, 2009 at 8:18 am
Blake,
You are on the right track for sure. Top colleges look for applicants who understand what commitment to excellence is all about. While your participation in the Duke program reflects well on you, it is your commitment to academics and your ongoing involvement in Speech and Debate that, together, are likely to make the biggest difference in the admission process.
By the way, I think you should raise your SAT Critical Reading standard. If you read diligently and study vocabulary throughout your high school years, you should be able to score in the 750-800 range. Again, continue to read widely and diligently, looking up and memorizing the words you don’t know. If you do this, the CR section will seem incredibly easy when you take the SAT as a junior or senior.
Keep up the good work.
February 28th, 2009 at 3:42 pm
I’m actually improving on my CR skills lately. It just seems like it depends so greatly upon what passages they put on the exam for me to analyze. I was in the 96th percentile on the PSAT this year in CR, but on the EXPLORE test I was around the 80th… It doesn’t make much sense to me.
Any specific books or practice that you suggest, for any SAT/ACT prep (CR in particular I guess)?
February 28th, 2009 at 3:56 pm
Blake,
I am happy to hear that your CR is improving. Again, the best way to improve CR long-term is to continuing reading widely and working on vocabulary.
If you want some specific SAT/ACT help, I suggest you consider ePrep’s study programs. They have helped thousands of students over the last 15 months.
Keep up the good work.
February 28th, 2009 at 7:51 pm
I’m considering the PSAT practice program. If that helps my performance on the PSAT (in October) I may consider the full SAT program when the time comes. My school subscribes to the Official SAT Study Program (I’m not sure of the exact title), but this seems like it’s more in depth.
February 28th, 2009 at 11:26 pm
So, I mentioned the Official SAT program (from Collegeboard.com) earlier.
I just finished a practice test, and I’m about to go over the answers.
The estimated score I received was between a 1940 (not so good) and 2190 (very good for me, a freshman) with a mean score of 2065. I’m happy with that, but there’s clearly room for improvement.
CR- 630-710
W- 690 – 800
(MC: 66-76, Essay: 12/12)
M- 620 – 680
I’m happy about that writing score, and the CR was slightly better than average. The math score sort of shocked me… I’ll have to see what went wrong… Any advice on issues with the math section (I’m great at math, but apparently I’m having issues with math on the SAT)
February 28th, 2009 at 11:39 pm
On the math questions… Two words: Careless Errors.
March 1st, 2009 at 11:01 am
Blake,
Just keep practicing and be patient with yourself. The older you get, the fewer careless errors you will make. Trust me.
March 1st, 2009 at 2:08 pm
I sure hope so.
Anything between 620 and 680 (in math) would be very disappointing for me. I know I can do much better.
March 1st, 2009 at 6:01 pm
I’ve been playing the “Wordsmith” game for a while, and I was just wondering… What would you consider a satisfactory score in the game.
I know it’s just a game, but it seems very helpful, and I’d like to get some kind of a guideline of how well (or how poorly) I’m doing.
March 2nd, 2009 at 5:15 pm
Blake,
Scores around 30,000 are great. Keep it up. FYI, all ePrep study programs come with access to WordSmith, ePrep’s vocabulary builder. WordSmith helps students organize, review, and test themselves on words that are useful for success on the SAT, college, and life beyond.
March 2nd, 2009 at 6:50 pm
I’m considering the PSAT program for next year. If I purchase now, I would have access through 11/1/09, correct?
March 3rd, 2009 at 7:55 am
Blake,
Yes, the PSAT study program would extend beyond the October 2009 test date. FYI, if you eventually eenroll in an ePrep SAT study program, all of your PSAT WordSmith efforts will transfer to your SAT study program. Nothing will be lost.
March 3rd, 2009 at 5:08 pm
Hey Karl.
I’ve got a question on what colleges expect for senior year.
I’m taking college classes while still in high school, in a PSEO program.
Next year Im planning to take:
Semester 1:
Calculus 1
Chemistry 1
Economics
Total Credits: 12
Semester 2:
Calculus 2
Chemistry 2
and Spanish
Total credits: 13
Is that enough? I know i am only taking three classes but they are all hard classes.
I fulfill the math and science requirement.
Do colleges expect you to take at least 4 classes or what. Keep in mind that these are college classes.
I feel that if i do take another class, i’ll be overwhelmed.
What do college admissions think about that?
Thanks!
March 4th, 2009 at 8:16 am
Anya,
Good question. Let me check with one of ePrep’s guest admission experts. I will post a reply by this afternoon.
March 4th, 2009 at 6:11 pm
Anya,
Sorry for the delay. Taking the college classes only during your senior year is fine, if, and only if, you have already fulfilled the standard high school distribution requirements. In other words, colleges will still want to see that you have taken a sufficient number of years of English, foreign language, math, science, APs, honors classes, etc.
I hope this helps you sort things out. Please do not hesitate to post follow-up questions.
March 4th, 2009 at 11:56 pm
Hmmm… I’m setting up my courses for my sophomore year soon (tomorrow through next week), and I was wondering if you had any suggestions. I’m interested in some form of engineering, but I’m still open.
Here’s the schedule I’m thinking about:
Honors World History II
Honors Algebra II
Web Design II/Computer Application
Latin III
Honors Chemistry
Speech and Debate Competition
Honors English
I’m just wondering if you think that might be too tough of a schedule… I’m considering dropping Honors World History, because I’m not incredibly interested in that… But it would be a nice thing to be able to say “I take all (available) honors classes”, because the classes I’m considering are all of the Honors classes offered at my school in 10th grade.
There are also a couple of AP options: AP Biology (I took Biology this year), and AP European History. I may take AP Bio my senior year if I’m interested, and I doubt I would really enjoy AP Euro.
If you could reply with any ideas about my schedule as soon as possible, that would be MUCH appreciated.
And I was also wondering… (you can answer this question AFTER the first part if you think it will take a while to answer) What are the real benefits of attending a ‘good’ college? It could be a dumb question… But I really don’t know. It seems like job offers in ‘the real world’ go by simply your college major and work experience… I’m planning on going to M.I.T., Stanford, or a similar school if I stick with engineering, possibly Harvard/Princeton/Yale/Duke if I change plans. But I really don’t want to have no “life” if I’m constantly busy doing work to try and boost my chances of acceptance in to a great school, if I could get similar results in the long-term by going to a lower-tier college.
Thanks again,
Blake
March 5th, 2009 at 8:52 am
Blake,
Don’t feel pressure to take “all” available honors classes. College admission officers understand that different students have different interests. The goal should be to take a balanced mix of APs in the liberal arts and the math & sciences. Based on the other courses in your proposed sophomore year schedule, you should not feel bad about dropping Honors World History, especially since your true interests lie in math/science/engineering.
By the way, an interest (and a strong background) in the math and sciences will definitely help when you finally apply to college.
While college is mostly about what you put into it, there are some advantages to graduating from a top-tier school. Schools like Princeton, Harvard, and Yale have amazing alumni networks. These networks often help when applying for that first job. Furthermore, the public at large respects, and is more willing to put its trust in, people who have attended America’s best universities.
That being said, you should keep things in perspective. You should not trade your adolescence and young adulthood for a 24/7 study regiment. The teenage year should be about discovering who you are and the college years should be about becoming a more interesting person.
I hope this helps.
March 5th, 2009 at 5:30 pm
Thanks for the advice! I’ll probably still take Honors History… It’s more modern history, which is a much bigger interest to me than some other history classes… So I’ll try and challenge myself with the honors course.
This morning I found out that all of my applications to honors courses have been accepted, which basically means I can choose to take any of the Honors classes I mentioned, but I’m not required to do so.
March 5th, 2009 at 6:37 pm
Blake,
I just edited the last two comments to remove my confusion. My bad. Sorry.
Congratulations on being accepted into the honors classes.
March 5th, 2009 at 7:06 pm
Sounds good, and thanks!
March 5th, 2009 at 7:09 pm
Another question…
I’ve heard that some colleges don’t “accept” AP courses… But what does that really mean?
Do they literally not accept the class, or do they mean that a good AP score won’t get you out of the Intro-level classes in some colleges?
March 5th, 2009 at 8:37 pm
Blake,
It means they won’t accept it for placement purposes because they likely
have their own placement test or standard.
March 11th, 2009 at 9:59 pm
Hi Karl. I am a junior in high school and I am taking all AP classes this year. I am getting B’s, B+’s, and A-’s. I got a 2050 on my SATs and my highest score was in english – a 750. My reading and math were both around 640. I plan on taking the SATs again in May and I will be taking several SAT II’s in June. I took AP US History and recieved a 730 on the SAT II and a 4 on the AP Exam. I also took the SAT II for French and got an 800 on the SAT II and a 5 on the AP Exam. I am a dedicated volunteer at two community organizations and I am in a few clubs. What are my chances of getting into NYU? I know that schools like Penn and Columbia are reach schools. Thank you so much for your advice and for this website.
March 12th, 2009 at 4:25 pm
concerned student,
Your subject test and AP scores look great. You need to step it up a notch, however, with regard to the SAT reasoning test. Based on your subject and AP scores, I know you can break 2200 if you practice.
Try to bump up your grades a bit too. Taking a lot of APs is one thing, doing really well in all of them is another.
If you step it up a notch as I suggested, you’ll have at least a 50/50 chance at NYU. Remember, each year NYU denies admission to literally thousands of qualified applicants. Give it your best shot and you will move forward with no regrets. Good luck.
March 14th, 2009 at 9:56 pm
Karl,
i just took my SAT today and i think i did horribly !! possibly worse than my diagnostic test scores which are around a 1740. should i cancel it? i really want to go to cornell. how would colleges percieve a 1600 and say a 2000. would they take the 1500 into consideration?
March 14th, 2009 at 9:58 pm
oh, also im also extremely interested in top liberal arts colleges. would taking an AP language course look better than taking AP art history?
March 15th, 2009 at 6:58 am
Lollu, Don’t cancel your scores. The College Board’s new Score Choice policy will allow you to prevent colleges from ever seeing your lowest overall scores.
While an AP language might “look better” than an AP art history course, you want to have a good balance of APs. Also, if you are really interested in art history, you should seriously consider pursuing that interest regardless of what colleges might think.
March 15th, 2009 at 7:53 pm
thanks for your response.
I heard that colleges can ask to see all your scores regardless of score choice. Is this true?
March 16th, 2009 at 8:52 am
Lollu,
It is true, but not many colleges have openly rejected Score Choice. I know Stanford has, but I don’t think there are many others.
March 19th, 2009 at 11:23 pm
Hey Karl,
Thanks for your advice a while back. I raised my SAT to 2180, and I’ve heard back from four colleges so far, UCLA, USC, NYU, and UCSB, and have been accepted to all. I’m still waiting for Brown, Duke, and Berkeley. Thanks!
March 20th, 2009 at 7:34 am
Michael,
Great job on increasing your SAT score. Congratulations of the rash of acceptance letters. And, good luck on the rest.
March 31st, 2009 at 2:14 pm
Hey Karl,
Thanks for your last piece of advice, I really appreciate it.
I have another question for you..
What do colleges think about seniors who graduate a semester earrly?
And to graduate a semester early, are we required to take the GED?
Thanks much!
March 31st, 2009 at 8:13 pm
Hey Karl,
Could you please tell me if i would qualify into Rutgers University located in New Brunswick, NJ?
I am interested to become an aerospace engineer!
Information:
Junior
3.96 GPA
1750 SAT subject test ( I am going to take one more time and i think taht i will get about 1850 this time) 720 math 520 writing 510
top 10% in school with 268 students
participating in extra activities and sports.
April 1st, 2009 at 6:36 am
Dan,
Are you a resident of New Jersey? If so, you are likely to be accepted. The only thing that worries me a bit are your writing and critical reading scores. They worry me for two reasons: (1) they are out of whack with your math score and low 500s will concern the admission officers at Rutgers; and (2) success in college and life beyond will require a lot of reading and writing.
I think you should apply your “smarts” to SAT prep in a very serious way. I’d like to see you get the CR into the 600s and the writing near 700. It’s all about practicing. Trust me. Who knows, maybe you can even get the math above 750. That would be a nice accomplishment.
I don’t like to “sell” on the blog, but you should definitely consider an ePrep study program. Good luck.
April 1st, 2009 at 6:32 pm
Hey karl,
Thank you sir!
April 3rd, 2009 at 9:43 pm
Hello, i go to this school every saturday morning for sat preparation
and im the only Freshman in that class. I didn’t want to be in that
class because i knew if i took the test i would get the lowest grades.
i’m really bad with vocabulary stuff and tomorrow i’m actually taking the
practice SAT test for 4 hrs. I’m very worried about getting the lowest
grade in that class.. Would it be okay if i did? And normally what grade
are you supposed to be starting to prepare for the SAT?
Last question, IF i had taken the SAT preparation class for 4 weeks
and just took the test, what would the score at least be?
April 4th, 2009 at 8:40 am
Ye Eun,
For most students, getting started with SAT preparation during sophomore year is early enough. You are way ahead of the game, so don’t worry too much about how you score compared to the older students in your class. Compete with yourself instead of with your classmates. In words, try to improve your own scores from one practice test to the next. Don’t concern yourself at all with the scores of your classmates. Good luck.
April 9th, 2009 at 9:18 pm
Karl, I am a junior and I took the PSAT’s and scored 640V
720M 590W. I than took your eprep course and in Jan I got on
my SAT’s 650V 640M 640W. I worked on eprep more – especially
the math, and the results of the March SAT’s were 640V 760M
and 660W (9 essay)- 1400M+V and 2060 MVW. Should take them
again in June? I think I can increase my verbal but my math
may go down. The colleges that I am looking at are
Colgate
Hamilton
Haverford
Lehigh
William and Mary
Bucknell
Dickinson
Gettysburg
Muhlenberg
reach Univ of Penn
reach Cornell
reach Duke
I am in the top 10% (rank by deciles) of a top 500 high school
in the USA. I am also 1ST team all star, captain and state
qualifier in cross country, along with other leadership roles.
April 10th, 2009 at 9:12 am
Sean,
First off, your scores are terrific. Congratulations!
FYI, most colleges (including many of the ones on your list) will consider your highest combination. Thus, if you do better in CR, but a little worse in Math, you’ll be better off.
If you think you can do better in CR, go for it. You should not neglect Writing, however. With some focused practice, you should be able to get that score up to the 700 range.
I hope this helps. Good luck.
April 10th, 2009 at 4:23 pm
Hi Karl,
I’m a junior right now, and I’m pretty nervous about taking the SAT three times. I know that colleges say they consider only your highest section (at least the ones I’ve researched), but I’m still worried about how much my scores changed on certain sections.
November: 800W 800CR 680M
January: 730W 690CR 800M
Superscored, yes, that is a 2400, but there are 110+ drops and gains in the two most important sections. I’m worried that colleges will put those huge drops against me, and think I’m not a steady student.
What do you think? Would you recommend a third testing?
April 10th, 2009 at 7:53 pm
Francine,
If I were you, I would not take the SAT again. It essentially took you two tries to earn a perfect score — 2400. This places you in an elite group of applicants. Trust me, the your SAT scores will not keep you out of any college. Whether you are accepted now depends other factors like your grades, teacher recommendations, and extracurricular activities. You have cleared the SAT hurdle by a large margin. Congratulations! Keep up the good work.
April 15th, 2009 at 10:25 pm
Dear Karl,
I would like to take the SAT II in French and I cannot decide when to take it. Since I am a junior, I can either take it this coming June, or this coming November. The Listening is only offered in November, but by that time I will be applying early to some schools. How much do colleges mind about Listening vs without listening? If I choose to take it in November, will the colleges I am applying to see my score?
Thank you very much!
April 16th, 2009 at 2:52 pm
Sophie,
I just talked to Don Betterton, one of ePrep’s admission experts. He told me that it would be unusual for a school to require a language subject test with listening. Thus, he suggusted that you take the test in June (at the end of the school year) when the material is likely to be freshest in your head.
That being said, Don added that November scores are typically returned quickly enough to be considered in early decision cases.
I hope this helps.
April 17th, 2009 at 7:28 pm
Dear Karl,
Thank you so much for the advice! I have one more question. In the first week and a half of May, I am taking the SAT I for the second time as well as AP Exams in European History, English, Biology, and Calculus AB. I am using review books such as Barrons and Princeton Review. Is it enough to use these review books? If there anything else I can do to maximize my scores on these AP exams? Also, my scores in the Official SAT Guide practice tests are between 670 and 800 in all three subjects. How accurate are these estimates?
Thank you so much!!
April 18th, 2009 at 5:31 pm
Sophie,
The score estimates that are based on the Official SAT Guide practice tests should be pretty accurate. Rather than rely on commercial practice materials in preparing, I think you should ask your teachers for practice materials and guidance. Most AP teachers have access to official practice guides and host review sessions in the weeks leading up the the tests. Please nudge your teachers, if they are not currently offering additional materials or other learning opportunities.
Good luck.
April 20th, 2009 at 10:00 pm
Hello Karl,
Could you please tell me if i am making a correct decision to go to rutgers University, NJ. I have a 3.96 GPA, 1800 SATs and extra activities. I would like to know that if u were in position like me, what colleges would be interested to go? Also, does Rutgers university has good aerospace engineering program compared to other colleges in USA? Please help me Thank You.
April 21st, 2009 at 4:12 pm
John,
Rutgers has a great reputation, and because it is a state university, it is very well funded. Thus, programs like aerospoace engineering have incredible facilities. There are currently about 400 students in the Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering program at Rutgers.
That being said, you should certainly apply to a few other schools. You never know what kind of scholarship offers you may get from other schools.
Good luck.
May 22nd, 2009 at 11:22 pm
Hello, I asked you my chances of getting into an ivy league a few months ago, when my Sat Score was 2150. Since then I got my December scores and got a 2040, but then retook it again in May and got a 2300. (yes, I don’t know my score went down after studying over thanksgiving break)
I was wondering if colleges pay any attention to scores after the 2300 mark, because a single mistake causes a large score decrease (I got a total of 4 questions wrong on the 2300 one). I’m guessing I should not bother retaking it?
I retook the SAT Math ii and got an 800, and a 750 on the Biology. I heard that some colleges require 3 tests of different subjects. History is not my strength, and I think I would not get above 740 on the SAT US History test. Do you think I should take another SAT subject? (I also got an 800 on chem, so I have 2 800’s , math and chem)
May 22nd, 2009 at 11:29 pm
Actually I think i would have a hard time getting above 700 on the History test
May 23rd, 2009 at 8:18 am
Sam,
Your scores are amazing. You will no doubt do well in life, regardless of where you go to college.
When you say you got a 2300 in May, does that mean that your May score was 2300 or that your overall best as of May is 2300. If the former is true, take advantage of Score Choice and send colleges only your May scores. Your SAT scores will not keep you out of the college of your choice. Whether you get admitted to the schools on your list will now depend on your transcript, teacher recommendations, and extracurricular accomplishments.
Don’t bother taking any more SAT subject tests. Your scores are awesome.
Keep me in the loop as things progress, Sam. Good luck.
May 23rd, 2009 at 2:33 pm
Hey! So I was browsing around on this site, and I must say you
all are amazing students! I only wish I could take AP calc
my freshman year haha. Anyways, I am very interested in what
you have to say about my academic accomplishes!
SAT Reasoning Test
Critical Reading 670
Math 550
Writing 620
Multiple Choice 56
Essay 11
So i’m aiming for around 2000 or higher because that was my
first time taking the test and i didn’t study at all. My GPA is
right now 10-12 is 3.94 but that isn’t including the 4.4 I just
got for last semester. I took AP English and AP US History
and got A’s in both classes, and next year i’m taking AP
Econ, AP Stats, and AP Lit. I’m projecting 4’s for the two AP
exams I just took.
I have been involved in Drama all of highschool, getting casted
as leads in mainstage productions for the plays and musicals,
and are very much active in theatre around my school. In
addition I have been an active, winning member of the speech
and debate team at our school for all of highschool. I have
won awards in rotary for my speeches as well. I am a part
of interact, and write editorials for the school newspaper.
Outside of school, I have been very active in my community
as a leader of the youth media team of our community coalition
for four years, helping create PSA’s, commercials, educational
films, and other pieces helping drug awareness in the community
and other prevalent issues. I was a part of the first
generation of kids to be a part of a reach
camp, a leader oriented program in california, and now are being
elevated in responsibility to basically a camp counselor.
This summer I am costarting a junior program to teach kids
all about acting and the theatre to try and start getting
them interested early, for kids in kindergarten to around 6th
grade.
Outside of the theatre related things in my life, I also do
films. Assistant directing, acting, and writing films, has
been a huge part of my life. Just recently, out films have
taken awards at the Sacramento international film festival,
and 1st place at Newport international film festival for the
youth division, as well as being entered in New York and
various other competitions.
ok so I probably put way too much, but I just want to give you
a fairly rough picture of what i do.
SO considering all that, i’m looking at colleges back east,
and UC Berkeley here on the West Coast. What would you consider
“Reach” colleges for me, and what colleges do you think
I would have a fairly good shot at getting into. If you need
any more information, please email me! Oh and did I mention
I play soccer? Haha ok I now realize it is impossible to give
a actual picture of who I am, so i’m just giving you what I
can think of right now.
Get back to me!
May 24th, 2009 at 9:27 am
Chase,
Your extracurricular activities/accomplishments are pretty amazing. They will definitely help distinguish you in the application process. If you want to get into a highly selective college, however, you are going to have to get your SAT scores up. With some practice, you should be able to break 2100. (Don’t sell yourself short. 2000 is good, but 2100 is better.)
By the way, I played soccer at Princeton and was involved with a movie project just a few years ago. The movie project was a lot of fun.
Keep working hard in school and following your passion outside of school, and everything will come together very nicely senior year. Trust me. You have positioned yourself well. Now it’s time to step it up a notch.
Send me an update when you get a chance.
May 24th, 2009 at 10:31 am
Hello,
Is it true that some colleges require three sat subject tests of different subjects?
For example, they might want math, science, english, but not math and two scienes.
I have taken Math and History so far and have gotten 750+. Do you think I need to take a science?
I don’t know if I could do well, and I would have to study reallly hard to study really hard.
Thanks,
Nathan
May 24th, 2009 at 10:32 am
Sorry about that
what I meant was I would have to study really hard.
Thanks
May 24th, 2009 at 10:59 am
Sorry if you are confused about the names
my brother is Sam.
but since he posted first the default name was Sam.
the last two posts are my me, Nathan.
thanks
May 24th, 2009 at 9:07 pm
Sorry, Nathan. When it comes to the number of SAT subject tests required, unfortunately, you have to check with schools on a case-by-case basis.
I am impressed, by the way, with the 750+ in Math and History. Keep up the good work.
May 26th, 2009 at 5:46 pm
Hi my name is Krithika Rajkumar and I am a junior at Avondale High School in Michigan. I just took 3 AP exams this year (US History, Bio, and Government) and I was just wondering whether the scores I get on these exams will make or break my chances of getting into a university. I have straight A’s in these courses at school, so will getting a low AP exam score look bad?
Thanks!
Krithika
May 27th, 2009 at 7:41 am
Krithika,
Your AP scores will definitely not “make or break” your chances of getting into college. Admission officers will assign more value to your course grades than to your AP scores. How you perform over the course of a year is more telling than how you performed on a give AP test.
Are you going to take the SAT, ACT, or both? Just curious.
Talk to you soon, Krithika.
May 28th, 2009 at 10:19 am
Thank you so much! I’m a little bit relieved now. I’m going to be taking the SAT and the ACT!
Thanks again!
June 2nd, 2009 at 12:41 pm
From reading some of your previous posts, I understand that you went to Princeton?! Well, that’s one of my top choices for college, and I was wondering what types of things did you put in your application that you think attracted the admissions officers to you?
Thanks!
June 2nd, 2009 at 7:54 pm
Krithika,
I was a recruited athlete and a solid high school student. There is not much more to it than that.
July 1st, 2009 at 10:51 am
I have taken sat twice and secured 1890(500+780+610) and 2040(590+740+710…….CR+MATHS+W).
I am taking subject tests in Oct and thereafter I shall be busy with my board(high school ) exams which
are extremely important for us in India.I will not be able to take SAT reasoning again
Will my current SAT scores get me admission in a decent Liberal Art college in US
July 1st, 2009 at 9:44 pm
To continue from my last message…I am in the top 10% of the class.Have been a house captain,
and prefect in school. Have taken Trinity college diplomas in effective communication.Am a keen trekker.
Also have been associated with an NGO to help the sick people of a low socioeconomic background.
I am keen on a liberal college (am more comfortable in a small school)…what would be the chances?
Am confident of doing well in the SAT subject tests.
July 2nd, 2009 at 7:41 am
Uday Bam,
Your test scores are terrific and your extracurricular activities impressive. If you apply to a range of small liberal arts colleges, you should have plenty of options after admission decisions are made.
Keep up the good work!
July 6th, 2009 at 1:20 am
Hi my name is Sidney and i’m a sophomore. I really want to get in to
Stanford and have been prepping for the SATs. I want to know if i take them as a sophomore will the colleges always see the scores or will they just see the one i send them. I’m really confused on how they know how many times you’ve taken the test. I want to take the test as a sophomore just as a practice round to know what to expect. I know you say wait till your a junior, but if you can take it all you want whats the harm?
July 6th, 2009 at 8:33 am
Sidney,
The College Board’s new policy is called Score Choice. It allows a student to send colleges only the SAT scores from the test date(s) that the student wants the colleges to consider. Unfortunately, Stanford University has rejected Score Choice and requires applicants to send all of their SAT scores. Thus, you many want to take the PSAT as a sophomore, instead of the SAT. Not even Stanford will ever see your PSAT scores.
I hope this helps.
July 17th, 2009 at 7:07 pm
Hello, my name is Kevin and I’m going to be a senior next year.
I am currently getting prepared to take SATs again, especially SAT 1.
SAT 1, my first attempt was in october 2008 and I got a score of 1990.
My second attempt was in may 2009 and I got a score of 2020.
So there was no BIG improvement.
Also, my SAT subject tests were Math IIc (780), Chem (710), Chinese (730)
Do you think it’s reasonable for me to take those SAT Subject Tests?
Moreover, I’m currently involved in Model United Nations (executive team for a certain conference), Habitat for Humanity (board member), and I was in a varsity Soccer squad last year.
I have been getting a few B’s in my freshman year, but I started to get all A’s in
my 2nd semester of Sophomore and throughout the Junior year.
Do you think it would be a bad idea if I try to apply to schools listed below?
Northwestern University, University of California, Berkeley, Duke University, Columbia University in the City of New York, Cornell University, University of Pennsylvania
NYU Stern, University of Michigan at Ann Arbor, Carnegie Mellon University, Boston College
Well, considering the fact that my SAT I scores will improve after I take the October test.
And maybe even SAT IIs…
Sorry I have so many questions…
What if I didn’t do well on my SAT II subject tests for the second time? Does that show that I got worse in the subject? Doest that necessarily gooing to stop me from going to schools that I want to go?
Thank you!
July 17th, 2009 at 7:08 pm
Ooops,
I meant
Do you think it’s reasonable for me to take those SAT Subject Tests again?
Not just
Do you think it’s reasonable for me to take those SAT Subject Tests?
Thank you!
July 17th, 2009 at 7:38 pm
Kevin,
I think your subject test scores are terrific. I wouldn’t bother taking them again. Your time will be better spent trying to bump up your SAT I scores. If you do, you’ll be in the mix at the schools you listed in your comment above.
What were your individual scores in May 2009? Just curious.
July 17th, 2009 at 10:48 pm
Oh, okay thank you for your help!
I got CR 570, M 800, W 650 for May 2009. (2020 total)
Oh and a few more questions popped out of my head!
1. What would be a reasonable score for me to be able to apply to those schools that I mentioned? Especially UC Berkeley, Upenn and Columbia?
2. And if I do get that score in my October SAT I Test, would it be alright if I just take SAT IIs and try to improve? And if I do get worse scores, would it be harmful to me?
I am so worried!
July 21st, 2009 at 7:41 am
Kevin,
You are definitely going to have to increase your CR score. Please spend some time this summer reading and building your vocabulary. Doing so will make a big difference. (With some practice, you should also be able to get the W score into the 700s.)
Unless you are an international student with an awesome TOEFL score or a recruited soccer player, you are going to have to get your CR score above 650 to have a realistic shot at many of the schools on your list.
If you retake a couple of the subject tests and score lower, it shouldn’t be a problem. Schools generally consider the highest scores only.
Post an update when you have one. Take care.
July 21st, 2009 at 12:59 pm
Thank you for your suggestions!
Yeah I know I have to increase my CR by a lot. Haha
I’ve been trying to read these days (I read 5 books already!)
And it seems to be that my both CR and W section seem to be improving a lot these days!
I guess this can be an update.
Thanks again!
July 25th, 2009 at 9:38 pm
Karl, I was wondering whether colleges value paid internships or voluntary internships more; I got into a ucsd neurotechnology internship but it is not paid. Do you think it is a good idea to ask my “overseer” for a nominal pay just so I can list the internship as work experience on the common app? i mean say $50 for a summer of work he is pretty chill.
Thank you
July 27th, 2009 at 7:09 am
Good question, Sam. A lot of teens today list the volunteer work they’ve done on their college applicatios. Thus, doing volunteer or other charitable work, while rewarding, is not likely to distinguish students for admission purposes. Work experience, on the other hand, is something common among college applicants.
Now, do I think listing your intership as paid or none-paid is going to make or break you in the admission process? No. Do I think it is slightly better to have a paid internship on your application? Yes.
I hope this helps.
August 1st, 2009 at 3:38 pm
Karl, I’m very happy I found your website!
I took the SAT test for the first time and I’m not very happy with
my results. I am not trying to get into huge schools, Infact I’m
probably going to a Community College for 2 years, then transfer.
I’ve been told by many that Communtiy Colleges do not care AS much
as 4 year schools. So I wasnt going to take the SAT again, now with
my senior year approaching, I am second guessing myself.
So my question is, does a Community College care about SAT scores
as much as a 4 year college does?
August 1st, 2009 at 9:45 pm
Tracie,
Community colleges do not care about SAT scores as much as more selective four-year colleges. Before you decide not to retake the SAT in the fall, however, you should check to see whether the community college that you are likely to attend offers merit-based scholarships.
Many schools offer merit-based scholarships for students with reasonably high SAT scores and high school GPAs. Look for a “scholarship and/or financial aid” link on the community college’s web site. Good luck. I hope this helps.
August 2nd, 2009 at 7:04 pm
Would you happen to be able to find out what the required SAT score would be for Gloucester County College, in New Jersey? Your help would be greatly appreciated
August 4th, 2009 at 8:42 am
Tracie,
There are no required SAT scores at Gloucester County College. The admission officers will primarily consider your high school GPA, teacher recommendations, and extra-curricular activities.
August 4th, 2009 at 9:00 am
Alright Karl, last question,
When I transfer after 2 years at GCC are they going to still worry about SAT scores at the other college?
August 5th, 2009 at 7:44 am
Tracie,
The answer to your question is NO. The four-year college will consider, primarily, the grades you earned in the courses you took while at Gloucester. That being said, you should earn high grades in as many challenging courses as possible. Good luck.
August 8th, 2009 at 5:26 pm
Thank you so much! You’ve been very helpful!
August 16th, 2009 at 2:36 pm
Karl,
I graduated high school 10 years ago, I want to go to a
reputable college. I dont remember my SAT scores in High
School, but they were most likely low, as well as my GPA. Is it
possible for me to take the SAT again? are there prep courses
for people that want to get into a good 4 year college after
so long?
August 17th, 2009 at 8:43 pm
Chris,
You’ll have to take the SAT again. Scores only last about five years.
Because ePrep’s SAT study program is video-based, it should help get you up to speed quickly.
Good luck.
August 18th, 2009 at 1:05 pm
Dear Karl,
I’ve taken the SAT’s twice and my final score was a 2050 (math 740, CR 630, CW 680). I have lived in the Middle East for two years with my family and attend an International School where I will most likely graduate 4 or 5 out 120.My unweighted GPA is 3.97 and my weighted GPA is 4.2. I will be a senior this year and by the time I graduate I will have taken 8 AP classes including calculas BC. So far I have mostly 5’s on AP exams and one 4. I expect to earn the AP Scholar designation. I have played ice hockey since I was 5 and have still managed to play here in the ME believe it or not. I also play baseball and while in the States was on the all star team from my State that wnet to the 13 yeard Babe Ruth World Series but I am not nor do I expect to be recruited for sports. I am actively involved with Habitat for Humanity and spent a week in Thailand building houses and intend to go to Viet Nam for a week this year. I am the fund raising leader for the group. I’m the treasurer for National Honor society and this year I earned an internship to work in a chemistry research lab at a large American University in the area. I am fully aware that as a white male I am in the most competitive group for college entrance at the most selective universities. What do you think of my chances of applying this fall for ED at Cornell in engineering. Do I have enough of interesting aspects to my resume to stand out or will my SAT score hurt me. Should I forgo ED and take the SAT’s again or would you consider my SAT’s in range.
Thanks for the advice. C
August 18th, 2009 at 1:12 pm
Karl – I forgot to add that I have taken the Chem SAT subject test and scored 730. I am taking the Math II subject test next month and expect to score in the 700+ range. Thanks again
August 19th, 2009 at 12:26 pm
Casey,
Ice Hockey in the Middle East! There’s your application essay. I love it. I’m sure you have some great stories to tell.
October and November SAT scores will still be considered by Cornell ED. Your current SAT scores are on the low end of the range for a school like Cornell. I think you need to step in up a notch and break 700 in CR and Writing this fall. You can do it, if you push yourself.
Good luck.
August 19th, 2009 at 12:45 pm
Thanks Karl. Instead of taking the SAT’s for a third time. What if I take your prep course for the ACT’s and take this test in the fall? Would I be in range if I score a 33 or 34 on the ACT?
August 25th, 2009 at 5:56 am
Casey,
The answer to you question is YES. Good luck. Please keep me updated.
August 26th, 2009 at 8:59 pm
Dear Karl,
I have taken the SAT twice and superscored, I received 2240. My
scores were in the mid 2100s both times. I took the ACT three
times, but two were in my freshman and sophomore year (I took
the tests without studying in advance). I received a 30, 31, and
33, in that order. However, I’m taking the ACT again in October
to try and get a higher score. It is likely I can get a higher score
but would colleges look down on my taking it four times? It seems
a little excessive.
My unweighted GPA is 3.63 but weighted, it’s 4.27. However, I have
consistently taken the hardest classes offered at my school. I skipped
a year of math and have been on the honors track for both math and science.
I have over 200 hours of community service from one community service
activity alone and I do many other extracurricular activities.
My other activities outside of school don’t worry me; academics
are my main concern right now.
I failed two AP tests and received 3,4,4,5 on my other AP tests.
I am also worried that my GPA is too low. School just started today
but I am dropping AP French in order to concentrate and get straight
As in my other classes. I am taking 3 other APs this year and trying
to add another to replace AP French.
Our school doesn’t do ranking but I would place myself in the
top 10 students at my school (out of a class of 400). I have
taken all the AP courses that my school offers except for 3, one
of which I can’t take (AP Spanish).
I am an Asian female. Based on my academics, would I be able to get
into Pomona College? Yale has always been my reach school but do
you think my academics are good enough? Assuming that I get a 34
on the ACT and all As this semester.
Also, would it really affect my acceptance at colleges because I
didn’t take AP French after taking it through 9-11th grades?
I really don’t enjoy the class at all and don’t see a reason
to put myself through another year of a class and a teacher that
I don’t like.
Thank you very much!
~Nathalie
August 27th, 2009 at 10:12 am
Nathalie,
As you probably know, Pomona College was recently ranked 6th (tied with Bowdoin) by US News and World Report in the category of Liberal Arts Colleges. Thus, as they say, “it’s a tough school to get into.” That being said, your academic record is exemplary and I think you have a very good chance of being admitted.
Pomona requires either the SAT and 2 SAT subject tests OR the ACT. You probably already know this too, but Pomona requires applicants to submit all SAT scores and all ACT scores. This should not be a concern for you, however, because all of your scores are high. (Your 9th and 19th grade ACT scores are high for a 9th/10th grader.)
If you don’t enjoy French any more, don’t bother with AP French. Colleges prefer students who follow their passions to students who pad their applications.
Good luck. Please send me updates.
August 28th, 2009 at 9:27 pm
Thank you for the advice! I was wondering, would I have a better chance at getting into Pomona if I apply for early decision? Also, how slim are my chances at getting into Yale or Stanford (regular decision)?
August 30th, 2009 at 12:39 pm
Nathalie,
Honestly, your chances of being admitted are slim at both Yale and Stanford. Those schools receive tens of thousands of applications from highly qualified applicants every year. I still think you should apply, however, because you never know. There might be something about your application that intrigues a staffer in one or both of those admission offices. Good luck.
September 1st, 2009 at 3:56 am
Dear Karl,
I am a European student, who has already finished high school with the British curriculum in Spain, also known as A levels where you study from 3 to 5 subjects in depth. I was looking to study architecture in the United Kingdom so I picked Maths, Further Maths, Physics, Art and Spanish. I achieved very good grades ranging from very high A´s (equivalent to above 80%) and B´s (equivalent to above 70%). I was born in Australia and thanks to my parents I can fluently speak Spanish, French, English and a little bit of Italian and Arabic. I also used to play tennis for 8 years and won many competitions but I quit to concentrate on my studies.
I won many art competitions in the whole of Spain and I was the captain of my basketball team at school. I have done a lot of community service throughout my life because of my religious beliefs. I have travelled to Portugal to help rebuilt an orphanage and have organized with the help of my church huge fund raising activities in Spain. My family now lives in the Middle East and I have spent two summers here to learn Arabic, working for a construction company.
Las year I got into one of my universities (college) in England of first choice but I have always felt I could do better. I have currently finished my first year and after a summer internship at an architectural company in Dubai I have realized that the American bachelor’s studies for architecture are far better respected by the companies than the European ones.
Therefore I came to the conclusion that I could study for my SATs and try to apply for a very good university, either Berkeley or Princeton to finish my architecture bachelors. However I have no idea if it is a waste of time because I would have to validate my
first year and because I have studied in the British curriculum they won’t be familiar with my level of academics. I am only 19 so I wouldn’t mind starting first year architecture again as long as I am achieving my bachelors in a very good university.
I am worried that they won’t be familiar with the British Curriculum. Do you think I could qualify to get into any of the good universities in the USA or would it simply be a waste of time? Would my application stand out at all?
September 1st, 2009 at 7:58 am
Esther,
You have a very interesting life story. I think you would add a lot to the student body of any American college or university. So, yes, I do think your application will stand out.
As far as familiarity with the British curriculum goes, top tier American colleges and universities will fully understand your academic achievements. Don’t worry about that.
I think applying to be a freshman is a good idea. Good luck preparing for the SAT. Those scores will be very important.
September 4th, 2009 at 9:31 pm
Hi Karl,
As a Hispanic male, I am wondering what you think my chances
are for admission into my top choices. I’m a National Merit
Semi-Finalist and I got a 2240 on the SAT(750 CR/710 M/780 WR)
with a 33 ACT composite. My subject test scores are:
770 Math Level 2, 720 Literature, and 710 Spanish.
My GPA is a 3.98 unweighted in the toughest possible curriculum
at a private, Catholic school. Though my school doesn’t officially
rank, I am unofficially ranked 3rd in my class of about 150. In
last year’s graduating class, about 15 students were accepted
to top 20 universities.
My extra-curriculars are pretty solid I think, though definitely
not as insane as other top applicants’. My most notable EC passion
is sports management, and I’ve worked for 2 professional sports
teams both over the summer and throughout the school year. This
passion will be the topic of my common app essay, and I’m pretty
confident that it will turn out to be good. My other notable ECs
include being the president of my school’s SADD chapter, being
a part of my city’s Mayor’s Youth Corps, and extensive peer mentoring
as a member of multiple clubs.
I have about 230 cumulative service hours, but my high school requires
150. This past summer, I attended a highly selective summer program
for hispanics at a top 20 university.
As of now, my college list is as follows:
Harvard
Yale
Princeton
UPenn (Wharton)
Dartmouth
Georgetown
Vanderbilt
Duke
Notre Dame
Wake Forest
Would you mind estimating my realistic chances at each school?
Thanks a bunch,I really appreciate it.
September 5th, 2009 at 1:23 am
Hi Karl,
I am an international student and I have scored 2000 on SAT .
critical reading-600
writing -600
math -600
My sat Subject scores are
800 in Maths level II and physics.
I am a national merit scholar,state level swimmer.
I have won best house captain award and was the head boy of the school.
What are my chances of getting admission to MIT,Cornell,UCBerkely
Standford for engineering?
Bye and Thanks and let me know
September 5th, 2009 at 1:25 am
Hi Karl
I am sorry I have made a typing mistake. I have scored 800
on sat math and not 600
Bye
September 5th, 2009 at 11:25 am
Anthony and Kiran, I am heading out of town for the holiday weekend. Rather than reply hastily, I will post more thoughtful responses on Monday. Thanks in advance for being patient. Have a great weekend.
September 9th, 2009 at 9:39 am
Anthony,
You have above a 50/50 chance at H, Y, P, UP, D, G, V, and D. I would be very surprised if you were rejected by ND or WF. Congratulations. It is clear that you have worked very hard and are very smart. Please post an update when you have one.
September 9th, 2009 at 9:42 am
Kiran,
You are likely to get into any one of the schools you listed, if you are being recruited for swimming. Without the swimming, however, your application will look like (literally) thousands of others that the schools on your list will receive this year. Thus, if you haven’t done so already, you should reach out to the swim coaches soon. Please post an update when you have one.
September 9th, 2009 at 11:54 am
Hi Karl,
Thanks a lot for your suggestion, Karl . I will try to reach
the swim coaches and then let you know. Karl, I need your advice again.
Can you give me a list of some safe universities as to where I
should apply. It will help me to choose the universities.
Bye and Thanks once again
September 10th, 2009 at 1:10 pm
Kiran,
I think you are likely to be admitted to terrific schools like Carnegie Mellon, Georgia Tech, and RPI (Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute). You should also consider some of the bigger state universities.
September 11th, 2009 at 2:34 am
Hi Karl,
Once again thanks . Today I received my TOEFL ibt score. It is
107.
Bye
September 17th, 2009 at 5:59 pm
Hi, I posted here several months ago, and I’m back again.
We recently hosted a College Fair at my school and I discovered that I’m very interested in attending the University of Pennsylvania. A teacher at our school is my state’s admission representative for UPenn, and not only is he an awesome teacher, but he taught at UPenn for 8 years and attended graduate school there and thoroughly enjoyed the experience.
He informed me of UPenn’s excellent business school, and mentioned that there really aren’t any “bad” academic aspects of UPenn. Their engineering school, which is what I would probably attend, is by no means insufficient either. Even if the ratings don’t beat out schools like Harvard or MIT in certain aspects, he mentioned the great faculty access and availability, and that has obvious benefits. The 6:1 student-teacher ratio sounds great as well. He’s got connections to within the school and the school’s faculty, and I see no reason not to attend. Just to ensure the validity of his claims (overzealous recruiters can exaggerate a bit), could you tell me any of your personal knowledge about UPenn? I just noticed that you attended UPenn’s law school.
I’m now a sophomore, and schools going well so far this year. If you would, I’d like a bit of analysis of my current resume to see if I’m putting myself in a good position to attend a school like UPenn.
The only official standardized test I’ve taken so far was the PSAT (as a freshman) and I scored a 193/240. 67 CR, 68 M, 62 W. Obviously, I plan to improve (significantly) all of those scores each time I take the PSAT.
I won state championships in Public Forum Debate, and competed that the Catholic Forensics League National Championships. I’m continually debating and hope to attend the National Forensics League championship this year, along the the CFL championships again. And I’m hoping to repeat as the state champion once again.
I received the Book Awards for World History I and Web Design last year. I am one of the top math students in my state, and I have done quite a few competitions. Most recently, I placed 2nd in the state in a Geometry written competition (last year), and hopefully similar results will continue
I am in Junior Varsity in Quiz Bowl again this year, and hope to move up to varsity by the end of the year. By graduation, I will have at least 100 community service hours (required by the school)
I participate in the Duke T.I.P. program (I’m not sure if you’re familiar with it)
And there could be more things that come up this year and throughout high school, of course. Those are just a few of the ’strong points’ in my resume.
Basically, if my application is something like that, will that put me in a competitive position when compared to other Top School applicants?
My schedule this year is Honors Algebra II, Latin III (no honors option available yet), Honors English 10, Honors Chemistry, Honors World History II, and Speech and Debate Competition.
Next year, I plan to take the following courses:
1. Honors Precalculus
2. AP English 11
3. AP Physics (not sure if this will be Physics B or C)
4. Speech and Debate Competition
5. AP Latin IV
6. AP Economics (I believe this covers both Micro- and Macro-economics)
7. AP US Government/Comparative Government (I need to check my school’s requirement here)
I’d also like to take Robotics, but based on my schools policy of allowing one opening for study hall, this means that I might have to do one of the AP classes as an independent study, if that’s a feasible option.
And I’ll ask again, what would you say my strong points are? Are things like Speech and Debate beneficial to college application? Is the Duke T.I.P. program a positive thing for my resume? Do colleges “like” things such as math competitions when looking for students?
Thanks,
Blake
September 18th, 2009 at 8:39 am
Blake,
You are definitely on track to attend a very selective college. I think your passion for debate will help your application stand out. While the Duke TIP program is great, more current (i.e., junior and senior year) achievements will be more relevant to admission staffers.
UPENN has an amazing law school. I also took some Wharton classes that I really liked. Keep in mind, however, that UPENN is a city school and crime is a factor in cities like Philadelphia.
I hope this helps. Keep up the good work!
September 19th, 2009 at 11:57 am
Thanks, I’ll get to look around the campus and the city when I visit in a few weeks and see how it looks.
Do you have any suggestions for independent studies… Specifically for AP Classes. I’m not exactly sure how it works.
Also, I’ve read that many students at other schools are far ahead of me in math. I’ve heard of students taking Algebra II as early as 7th grade. Should I be worried that I’m behind in math (even though I do well in the classes I take) compared to some, or are these people in a very rare situation?
September 28th, 2009 at 9:19 pm
hey karl, I’m a senior in high school and I made a 1750 on my sat and a 28 on my act. My gpa is 3.911 weighted and 4.3 unweighted. I am among the top 5% at my school. My EC’s include taking piano and guitar lessons, volunteering at a hospital and nursery home, Beta Club, SkillsUSA, sunday school school, and working at my dad’s pharmacy. I’ve also taken a total of 7 AP classes and 9 honors classes throughout highschool. Do I have a good chance at schools like Georgia Tech, UCLA, Emoory, etc?
September 30th, 2009 at 11:06 am
Quoc-Huy,
Your GPA, school rank, and extracurricular activities are exceptional. The only thing that will hurt your application is your SAT composite score. I think you are going to have to get closer to 2000 in order to get into some of the schools you listed. You have until January to prepare for, and take, the SAT again. Please don’t be discouraged. With some practice and guidance, you can increase your scores significantly.
Good luck.
September 30th, 2009 at 6:06 pm
Thanks for the advice, Karl. However, I have already applied for early admission for Georgia Tech. Considering the fact that I also am the resident of Georgia, do you think Tech might consider me at all?
October 1st, 2009 at 10:27 am
Quoc-Huy,
Ah! I didn’t know you were a resident of Georgia. This will definitely help. I think you have more that a 50/50 chance now. Good luck.
October 1st, 2009 at 8:32 pm
alright thank you again. Now I feel more confident in myself
October 3rd, 2009 at 11:28 pm
Hey Karl,
Wow! I just stumbled upon this website and it’s def. really cool.
I have a question for you- I am applying to some really elite school
that “require” you to send all your scores (yale, columbia, etc.)However,
I thought with score choice, I would just send my ACT on which I got a 35.
My SAT scores is good, but not nearly as impressive (2100’s somewhere).
I also took another ACT and got a 33. I know colleges say they will only
take the highest, but it would put me at ease if I knew this: Can the colleges
see how many times you take a test, or if you took the other(SAT and ACT)
and penalize you for not reporting? Like when they get the official score
report for my 35 test day from ACT, will they be able to see I took it
on another test date? Also, how do you think the colleges would react
if I did send my one SAT score with a perfect 800 in math, but not as stellar
English and Writing sections? Thanks for all your help!
October 3rd, 2009 at 11:32 pm
Oh sorry one more thing… if colleges say you must submit all your scores, do you have to pay for all of the official score reports or just send one and self-report the rest?
Thanks!
October 4th, 2009 at 12:01 pm
Erin,
When schools say that they want to see all your scores, they are likely referring to your SAT scores only. In other words, they are explicitly rejecting the College Board’s new score-choice policy. Thus, if you submit SAT scores to these schools, you have to submit them all. However, you may still choose to submit none of your SAT scores.
This is what I suggest you do. Submit your ACT score (35) and nothing else. Colleges will not know that you took the ACT on any other dates.
I hope this helps.
October 4th, 2009 at 1:42 pm
Hi Karl,
i was looking up college stuff on my computer and happened to
stumble onto your website.
I’m currently a junior and my GPA is lower than it should be,
a 3.6 unweighted and my SAT score is 1830/2400
do I have a good chance or getting into Georgia Tech?
I also live in Georgia. And do colleges use weighted or
unweighted GPA? And which one is more important?
October 5th, 2009 at 4:55 pm
Nicole,
Your unweighted GPA is more important to admission staffers. With your unweighted 3.6 and an SAT composite score of 1830, you have at least a 50/50 chance of getting into Georgia Tech.
Good luck.
October 5th, 2009 at 11:26 pm
Thanks for your reply… One more question. Sorry! What about SAT II’s? Do you have to submit every score for them as well?(ex. took it twice) and will my SAT reasoning score show up on that report as well? Thanks for all your help!
October 5th, 2009 at 11:44 pm
Hi Karl,
I am a junior in high school. I got 2350 on SATs.
I take 5 APs this year, however, my gpa is 3.5.
Do I have a chance to getting in to columbia university?
Thank you
October 6th, 2009 at 2:50 pm
Wendy,
First, I assume your GPA is unweighted. Is that correct?
Also, what kind of extracurricular activities do you participate in and what kinds of college majors interest you most?
Let me know and I will tell you what I think.
October 6th, 2009 at 7:32 pm
Thank you Karl for your reply
Yes, you are correct.
My GPA is unweighted
My extracurricular activities are:
1. National Ocean Science Bowl
2. Forensic science club
3. Marine science project
4. Math team
5. I am also the vice president of Art Club for last two years
6. I volunteers at the Stony Brook hospital
However, I never played any sports before.
The college majors that interest me the most are Biomedical Engineering and Math.
October 8th, 2009 at 2:02 pm
Wendy,
Many schools have trouble finding qualified young women who want to major in math or a science. Thus, the fact that you are a talented young woman who has demonstrated an interest in math and the sciences is a big plus. You certainly have better than a 50/50 chance of getting into a school like Columbia. Good luck.
October 10th, 2009 at 9:37 pm
Hey Karl!
I’m a senior in high school, and my unweighted GPA is 3.4.
I’ve only taken a couple of AP’s: Psych, US, World, and currently
I’m taking AP Mandarin and AP Calc AB. I have a 2040 on my SATs,
however I took them again today and I’m hoping I improved from that
score.
My extracurrics are: Co-captain of Varsity cheerleading,
photo editor of the yearbook, committee chair of Public Relations
of Key Club, and various work/volunteer experiences.
I visited UPenn a few weeks ago and I am in love. I’m thinking
of EDing, despite my lackluster scores. People say that the
fact that I go to Stuyvesant High School helps, and that college\s
are usually more lenient with low scores in Stuy because all
the courses are accelerated and generally taught at a higher level.
I look at the stats that my school offers for students to look at
and with my scores, I have 0 chance of getting in. However, over
the years, not many people have EDed to UPenn so I wouldn’t say
that the stats are too telling.
Do you think my EDing to UPenn is a reasonable choice? Or am I
reaching for the stars?
(I would apply to Upenn A/S)
October 12th, 2009 at 7:35 am
Cassandra,
Schools like UPENN will receive literally thousands of applications from students as qualified as you. Without a significant increase in your SAT scores, I think your chances of being admitted by UPENN are pretty slim. That being said, if your scores improve and you have the money to apply, you might as well give it a shot. You never know until you try. Good luck.
October 19th, 2009 at 10:58 pm
Hi Karl!
I just found your blog and I wish I had heard of it sooner.
I am a senior and I’ve taken the SAT I twice. My highest score, 2060,
was junior year with CR 730, math 710, and writing 720. I just took the October SAT II
for the second time. I was wondering if I should take the December SAT I again because
I am applying to Stanford, Harvard, Yale, Princeton, Brown, and a few UCs. My unweighted
GPA is 3.9. I’ve taken 4 AP tests so far and have gotten three 4’s and one 5, I am taking
another 5 AP tests this year. So should I retake the SAT’s and do I have a chance at the
Ivy Leagues based on my academics?
October 20th, 2009 at 1:15 am
Hi Karl,
I’m a senior in high school, and my unweighted GPA is 3.8.
I’ve taken a 2 honors courses (the only offered at my school prior to junior year) and a number of AP’s: (junior)English Composition, U.S. History, Human Geography, (senior) U.S Government, Microeconomics, Psychology, and Studio Art.
I attend an arts focused high school but I am more interested in pursuing a career in the Sciences.
I am an ELC scholar and feel confident regarding the UC system but I am more interested in East Coast schools.
My extracurriculars consist of my eleven year participation in the San Francisco Girls Chorus.
With the chorus I have served as the leading spokesperson for two consecutive years and I helped push for our eventual performance at the Inauguration of President Barack Obama.
This rigorous institution requires a six hour weekly commitment in addition to a five hour rehearsal every other saturday, so it is difficult to participate in other activities.
However, along with my steady participation in the chorus, I have found time to participate in a volunteer “soothing sounds” service where I can apply my skill to residents and patients in homes and hospitals.
I also have been a two year participant in Model UN at my school.
My main downfall is my test scores—I test poorly.
My recent ACT was a 24 and I am still awaiting my SAT scores, which Im not expecting to be too high…
I’d like to apply to Bucknell and Vassar but with these low scores, the reality of the situation is disheartening.
Is it absurd to be thinking of these schools? Are they simply too high to reach?
Thanks.
October 20th, 2009 at 11:05 am
Amaya,
Your extracurricular accomplishments are impressive. The fact that you have focused on one activity is not a bad thing at all. It shows that you understand what commitment is all about.
Your GPA and coursework are impressive, but I agree that your test scores will hurt your admission chances. I try not to “sell” on this blog site, but have you considered an ePrep study program? I work privately with dozens of students just like you who do not test well. My experience is that, if students prepare in the right environment, their test scores can certainly match their GPAs.
All this being said, if your scores do not improve at all, I still think you have a shot at schools like Bucknell and Vassar. Your status as a CA resident will help. Good luck.
October 20th, 2009 at 11:18 am
Christina,
While your academic credentials are impressive, they alone will not guarantee you a spot at an Ivy League school. If you bump up your SAT scores, you will certainly improve your chances, but there are still no guarantees. Please keep in mind that schools like the Ivies receive thousands of applications every year from students with scores as impressive as yours.
Is there anything in your background that makes you unusual? Did you grow up in a circus family or have you won a national-level award in academics or through an extracurricular pursuit? Before you complete your applications, think hard about what makes you special and why a school like Yale would be lucky to have you.
One final word: Whatever happens in the admission process, I know that you will be very successful in life as long as you continue to apply yourself the way you have in high school. Congratulations in advance.
October 20th, 2009 at 7:53 pm
Hey missa little worried. I am a Sophmore at Riverwood Interational Charter School (Magnet IB Public HS). I decided to take Kaplan course to prepare me for the SAT’s. I want to go to a Guarenteed Medical School and my practice test scores are around 1900. I need to get around 2100 for good programs. I plan on working on my SAT more, but I haven’t had enough time. My sister entered a Guarenteed Med program and is now a MD, and her Alma Mater needs a 1910 minnimun. Will legaies help at VCU. I have a 4.0 average in magnet honors classes, I taught my self AP World Geography and got a 5, I am taking AP Chem and World, I am a World Champion in Robotics (FTC), All state chous, teach at an elementary school, officer in FBLA, run XC and Track. What are my chances on getting in say Duke with a 1950.
October 20th, 2009 at 8:21 pm
Oh btw let me add more background info. deans list, will be in IB, select Chamber Chorus, Mens Chorus treasurer, accepted into application for Goveners Honors Program, top 5% of 400 person class, state geography 4th place, Duke T.I.P, Talented and Gifted Program in Georgia,Enviormental club, ecycling club, hands on atlanta, volunteering at a hospital, shadowing a MD,
October 20th, 2009 at 11:57 pm
Hi again Karl,
Thanks for your earlier advice and I have decided to retake the SAT I in December, though it won’t matter for Stanford since I’m applying early. Some extracurricular activities I have are playing JV badminton since sophomore year, I’ve won a bronze and silver Presidential Award for community service, I took an extra Spanish course one summer, and I’ve gone to two National Service Learning Conferences with a few students form my school, one in 10th grade in Minneapolis and the other in 11th grade in Nashville (which we presented a workshop at). I am also the ranked 4th in my class and have ELC (Elegibility in the Local Context) meaning I have guarenteed acceptance to 5 of the 9 UCs. What do you think about my chances? Thanks for your advice and responding so quickly to my earlier post.
October 21st, 2009 at 10:33 am
Christina,
While the extracurricular activities you lists were likely ones that helped shape you as a person, they are not likely to pique the special interest of admission staffers. I am glad to hear that you have already been guaranteed admission at 5 UCs. That is awesome. Work to bump up your SAT scores, apply to some Ivies, and hope for the best. That’s all you can do at this point. When you’re finished applying, remember to take some time to really enjoy senior year. Good luck and have fun.
October 21st, 2009 at 11:50 am
Aaron,
Your accomplishments are impressive and you seem to have a clear idea of what you want to do with your life. Legacy status helps at virtually every school. While I think you’d have a slim chance of being admitted by Duke with a 1950, keep in mind that you are only a sophomore. In other words, even without additional practice, your SAT scores are likely to improve by junior year, if you continue to study diligently. Good luck.
October 22nd, 2009 at 10:45 pm
Hi Karl,
I am a senior in high school with the following:
4.6 weighted gpa(I don’t know what that converts to unweighted)
2nd in class of about 680
ACT=35
2 4’s and a 5 on ap tests last year
6 more ap classes this year
all other classes are Honors
taking an honors communication course at local college
AP scholar and National Merit commended
National Honor Society/ Spanish NHS
Extracurriculars:
volleyball for three years
training for marathon this year
spanish club and multicultural club
liason for school spirit club
volunteer once a week at local hospital
founder and president of service club at my high school that brings teen girls together with senior ladies to give them makeovers(this is def. something that I am very passionate about and I intend to convey that in my application)
I am intending to apply to all the Ivies, as well as NYU, Boston University, Notre Dame, University of Chicago, Georgetown, and Johns Hopkins. Could you please tell me what you think my chances are?
October 23rd, 2009 at 5:17 pm
Mel,
Your record is impressive. I like the service club work and think you should highlight it in your application. I noticed that you in a Spanish club and a multicultural club. Are you Hispanic? While the answer is not important to me, it will make a difference in how your application is viewed by admission officers. Let me know when you can.
October 23rd, 2009 at 6:29 pm
No I am of European descent, but I am in Spanish 5 and I love the language, so I joined Spanish club as well as Spanish NHS. The multicultural club is more of a club where members go out into the community to cultural performances by different groups(ex. plays, specific museum exhibits, etc.). At our school, it is classified as “multicultural club” and it does involve different cultures, however the focus is on the how art affects culture and anyone of any descent is welcome to join. Sorry about the confusion! Thanks!
October 23rd, 2009 at 6:52 pm
Mel,
Let me check with Don Betterton over the weekend. I am not that familiar with the admission policies of a couple of the schools you listed. Thanks in advance for being patient.
October 28th, 2009 at 6:18 pm
Dear Karl,
I applied for the SAT prep Course back a month ago.
Needless to say, circumstances have changed, and I was
unable to attend the first day. My parents suggested I study
on my own and I was consistently told that it was just a
business, and that they mostly rely on the psychological aspect
of the test and building of confidence than actually learning
things.
I sent an apology letter to my College Counselor, who replied
a Wednesday after the first weekend of the course, telling me
I still had to pay the full amount. 650$, even though I hadn’t
attended the first two days. He mentioned that the only time
it was possible to cancel the course was three weeks prior. This
I was not aware of. Do I have the right to be mad at
the guy for not warning me of these conditions?
of this aspect of
October 28th, 2009 at 6:23 pm
Ghita,
I am a bit confused by your email. All ePrep study programs are online courses that allow students to work at their own pace. Thus, it is not possible to be “absent” or “miss” a day of the course.
If you have not done so already, you should log in and get started.
October 29th, 2009 at 11:48 am
My Daughter recently received her score for Bio M SAT Subject. She took just after completeing her Freshman year. Is this considered a good score?
October 29th, 2009 at 11:49 am
Sorry I left out her test score of 670.
October 29th, 2009 at 11:52 am
Her test score was 670
October 29th, 2009 at 11:59 am
I am currently a senior and I have a question concerning a year
of bad grades. I did well my freshman and sophmore year, pulling
in a 3.7 unweighted, although I did take honors and AP courses.
My junior year however, I moved and was placed in a very bad home
environment. It was affecting me so much that I basically stopped
going to school altogether. I have a couple quarters of F’s
on my transcript. That brought my GPA down to a 3.2 unweighted
after Junior Year. I have since moved and am now maintaining
straight A’s, although I am in alot of underclassmen classes
because I moved from out of state and need them to graduate in
California. Since I was little kid I have always wanted Penn.
My grandpa went so if I went also, I would be his Legacy. I know
though, that is not enough to get me in. I got a 1980 on my Sat,
which I know is decent but not Ivy material. I retook my ACT
and I am expecting a 31 or above. Do I have any chance at all
of still being accepted?
October 29th, 2009 at 12:02 pm
Also I forgot to add, If I was to write a killer essay and explain my
circumstances and my love of the school, would I still have a shot?
In fact, that’s really what I wanted my question to say, because,
I know based off my grades and score alone, I would never have a shot.
October 29th, 2009 at 12:56 pm
Ray,
670 is definitely a solid score. You will, however, be better able to judge its value when you receive the written report in the mail, because it will include a percentile rank.
October 29th, 2009 at 1:01 pm
Jana,
You have a slim chance of getting in, but you should definitely apply to PENN. If your essay is moving and you catch the right admission officer at the right time, you may indeed receive special consideration. Colleges aren’t just looking for “perfect” students, they are looking for people who know what it means to overcome adversity. Good luck and keep up the good work.
October 29th, 2009 at 2:53 pm
Hey Karl,
is it better to send all sat scores, or just your highest?
because my highest scores on MATH, CR, WRT are all in different scores.
Thanks for the help!
October 29th, 2009 at 3:00 pm
Mel,
As you review my thoughts, please keep in mind that the schools on your list reject thousands of incredibly talented applicants every year.
When it comes to the Ivies, you have a slim shot everywhere except Cornell.
BU is a good match. You should get in there.
NYU I would say 60% chance and U of Chicago 40%.
Georgetown and JHU will be slim shots as well.
Whatever happens in the end, please remember that the hard work that has gotten you where you are now will continue to bring success. Congratulations.
October 29th, 2009 at 3:26 pm
Diane,
It is best to send all of the scores needed to create your best overall combined score. In other words, colleges will always add up your best Math, CR, and Writing scores, regardless of the other scores earned on any given test date. I hope this helps.
October 30th, 2009 at 12:21 am
i am currently in junior college
and i wanted to know the most
appropriate time to write the
SAT examination among all the prescribed
dates.could u also tell e the number of
times an individual could try to get his/her
desire score.
thank you!
October 30th, 2009 at 12:27 am
I am currently studying in junior college
and i wanted to know about the number of
times an individual could write the SAT examination
in order to obtain their desired scores.could u also
tell me the most approprate time for one to write the exam
among the prescribed dates.
THANK YOU!
October 30th, 2009 at 9:58 am
Hi there,
wow, you’ve been promptly and consistently replying to so many students’ queries for over 3 years, amazing… I hope you could share help me out a little as well. I’m a student from Singapore, and I’m really hoping to get into top notch universities in the US (particularly UPenn, Berkeley, NYU). I recently recieved my SAT score of 2110, which I was pretty disappointed with because the standard in my school’s pretty high, many of them get above 2200.. I’m planning to take it again because I believe I can do better. But the standards are definitely higher for international students right? Would the college admissions people be stricter with us?
October 30th, 2009 at 2:56 pm
Nikhita,
Colleges typically expect extremely high math scores from international students. Slightly lower verbal scores are understandable, given that many international students are not native English speakers. Many international students submit TOEFL scores to demonstrate their English fluency. A high TOEFL score can compensate for lower SAT Critcal Reading and Writing scores.
I hope this helps. Good luck.
October 31st, 2009 at 11:01 am
Hey,
Thanks a lot for that advice. High would be around? I got a 750. Nt good enough?
October 31st, 2009 at 11:03 am
Nikhita,
750 is awesome, but you may need higher for PENN and Berkeley.
October 31st, 2009 at 11:08 am
Also, I seem to be having real trouble with my essay component. I typicaly score well for my class essays, and looking at the samples in the Official SAT book, it doesn’t seem like too hhigh a standard to reach. Why is it that I can’t get a good score though?Any tips?
October 31st, 2009 at 11:10 am
Wow that was a quick! Thank you! (:
October 31st, 2009 at 11:24 am
Nikhita,
You should watch the videos in the “essay” category on the blog site. I think they will help you write a higher-scoring essay.
October 31st, 2009 at 12:48 pm
Dirsha,
Sorry for the delayed response. I missed your comment the other day. You can take the SAT as many times as you want to get the score you desire. I think December and January are great times to take the SAT.
November 1st, 2009 at 3:39 pm
Do you have any statistics on admissions at Penn’s Jerome Fisher program? I’m interested, and apparently they only accept 50 people each year, but out of how many applicants?
November 2nd, 2009 at 9:53 am
Blake,
I do not have any stats on the Jerome Fisher program at PENN. Sorry. You may want to contact the admission office directly.
November 3rd, 2009 at 6:21 pm
I’ll do that sometime soon, hopefully.
I have another entirely different question… What are some international competitions (academic) that look good on a college application?
I’ve heard of the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair, but I’m interested in hearing about other opportunities I could try.
November 4th, 2009 at 9:40 am
Blake,
You should avoid participating in activities simply because you think they will “look good” on your application in a few years. I encourage you to pursue your interests. If you do, your application will certainly be an impressive one.
All that being said, I do not have any insights into international competitions, academic or otherwise.
November 4th, 2009 at 5:04 pm
Of course, I was only trying to figure out what opportunities I had to exhibit my interests on a high level such as international competition. Anything like that would probably be a great experience.
November 5th, 2009 at 6:41 pm
Hey Karl, I have already applied for early decision at Georgia Tech but i want to continue sending test scores. The GT notification date is November 20th. I have already sent two test scores before the mentioned date. Do you think that tech will consider these scores when they are making their decision?
November 6th, 2009 at 2:30 am
I just have quick question. After reading lots of questions and answers, it really helped me in better understandinf of undegraduate admission. I just have a quick question. Which is that 1. I have lived in U.S.A. for nearly 8 years. The colleges I want to apply to as regular decisions (Cornell, NYU, Carnegie Mellon, Michigan) do you think I still have to take an international student test called toefl? I haven’t taken yet and I noticed that colllege like NYU wouldn’t mind me to take toefl since I have got my education in english. Although other colleges do require, I am sort of confuse whether I still need to take it since I lived in U.S.A. for so many years. 2 question is that I got my Oct. SAT score which was
Reading- 580
Math- 670
Writing- 600
SAT II
Math II C- 680 (should I retake the test?)
U.S. History- 720
GPA: 91/ 100 Unweighed
Rank:5/64
Do you think if I take another SAT on Nov and don’t do well, should I retake it on December?
Also, I heard from my highshcool college counselors that we can “rush” our january SAT scores to the colleges. Do you think it’s good idea?
Lastly, it’s true that we can take SAT as many times as we want right? and most colleges will choose the highest scores.
Look forward hearing from you soon
Thank you
November 6th, 2009 at 2:35 am
Also, if I do well, do you think I would be good candidate for both of Cornell and NYU? I want to be major in arts and science. Especially, chemistry. Since Cornell is very strong in science, should I apply as different major and change the major later after I get in? (if possible) so that I would have greater chance of getting into the Cornell? Also, I have done lots of activities and three paid internships and during this summer I worked at korean Stem cell hospital where it’s very closely related to Cornell University.
Lastly, I also would like to apply to some name schools as well.
Which college do could you recommand based on those information?
I have got so many awards from sports. (about 5) and have joined very top 10% of selective program at our school. I also have done more than 100 community service hours.
Sorry about asking this so late.
Thank you
November 6th, 2009 at 2:41 am
Oops I am sorry about not mentioning this too.
I have taken 6 honor courses and my school don’t offer AP and honors course is the strongest couruse. Also, now I am taking H-English , International Relations , Physics , H-Calculus
H- technology
sorry for writing in three different columns
^__^
November 8th, 2009 at 9:09 am
Hi Karl!
Im just wondering if any of the Schools in the UC system looks at the average score of SATs. I recently took my first “real” SAT and i’m not confident in it so i hope that the UC schools just look at the highest score.
November 8th, 2009 at 11:17 am
Hey,
sorry to bug you! I’ve this huge dilemma right now. I recently discovered that I missed out 4 questions on my writing section, which totally explains the dismal score! I was going to take SAT2 the coming session but now I feel like I really deserve a better shot at SAT 1. I only have one session left though, before it’s time to apply for colleges. So which should I do? SAT1 or 2? I got 2110 for SAT1 and that’s already my second time, so what should I do now? Is it better to take it a third time or go for SAT 2 (which I hear is optional but recommended by most schools, especially for international students like me)? Thanks tons! I’m following your advice closely.
November 8th, 2009 at 7:13 pm
Quoc-Huy,
Georgia Tech will consider scores from tests taken on or before November 7, 2009. Good luck with early decision. Let me know how it goes.
November 8th, 2009 at 7:23 pm
Jae Mln,
If you can do better than 680 on the Math Level 2, retake it for sure.
Colleges will generally consider your best SAT combined score. You can and should take the SAT as many times as you want. January scores will be considered for regular admission.
I do not think you need to take the TOEFL. The TOEFL allows international students who score low on the SAT writing and critical reading to demonstrate their English fluency. You clearly do not need to do this.
Unless you have some truly outstanding extracurricular activities on your application, I think Cornell and NYU will be difficult (but not impossible) schools for you to get into.
In addition to Cornell and NYU, you should also consider applying to awesome schools like Colgate and Bucknell. Good luck and keep up the good work.
November 8th, 2009 at 7:30 pm
JP,
I just got back from a weekend away. Sorry for the delay. I will check with Don Betterton on your question and post a response tomorrow.
November 8th, 2009 at 7:34 pm
Nikhita,
Both the SAT and Subject Tests are being offered on December 5, 2009, and January 23, 2010. Since January scores still count for regular admission, you actually have two opportunities left.
I think you should retake the SAT on one of the dates and two Subject Tests on the other. Which date you pick for which test(s) is entirely up to you. Good luck. Please do not hesitate to post any follow-up questions.
November 9th, 2009 at 10:35 pm
Oh brilliant! Thank you, I’ll sign up right away.
November 11th, 2009 at 4:47 am
Karl,
Thank you for your response. Your response indeed helped me. But, I still want to try to apply to
NYU because our school has very good relationship with NYU and many people go there somewhat similar to my scores.. Although it’s very low. I am also going to take SAT 1 on Decemeber again for sure and for January, I will take SAT II on Math II C depends on how I perform on December really…
Also, I have did internship at korean hospital where I did stem cell research and for last sumemr went to Cambodia for missionary trip and I was a translator there. And also I am doing Bank Internship where I get paid $20 per hour, acting as an accountant. Anyway, I am just giving these internships lists in order to show that I am really interested in math and science. Anyway, I will try my best who knows right? Also, do you think Carnegie Mellon University, Emory (I know it’s very competitive but still wants to try) , Michigan University, Virginia Tech, Case Western Reserved University (which I already sent for my application as a safety/probable school). Also other than bucknell and Colgate, is there other great schools that you can recommand me? Since I am a international student, I think going into a named school is the best choice (obviously hard… for sure) since most of people at my country wouldn’t recognize the university’s/college’s name if they are not included in “named” school. By the way, my grandparents are paying the tuition for me and they would be much more happier If I can go to good school and pay high tuition rather go to a standard school where my grandparents pay low tuition.
Sorry for asking so personal question, but I should be done with my application but at the same time, I am fraustrating so… please help me.
Look forward hearing from you soon.
Thank you
November 11th, 2009 at 5:32 am
Also, for my E.C. I have been captain for Varsity Basketball, Soccer and was a Coxswain in Crew. In all these sports, I have received 2 MIP and 1 mvp. I really want to go to the schools that I listen in above. How can I do to make them appeal to me? I think my E.C. is strong sice I have done three paid jobs, more than five sports awards, like MIP, MVP and Headmaster LIsts, Deans Lists, Writing Award, Math Award… And in a scholars program. I know my SAT should be at least 2100 in order to go to colleges I have listen in above but what other things shall I do to make them appeal to me?
Any advice? I want to be major in science and math
Thank you
November 11th, 2009 at 9:58 pm
Hi Karl
Do you think there is anybody who got into an Ivy league school
with an sat score of 1850?
Or is that nearly impossible?
What if you have great EC activities but a low sat score- is
that not enough to get into an ivy?
thank you.
November 11th, 2009 at 10:26 pm
Also, for the uc’s, it is required that you send all of your
sat scores for review. So, does score choice apply to uc’s
when sending the sat I scores?
thank you, again.
November 12th, 2009 at 6:33 pm
Dear Karl,
I took the SAT I test my October ‘08.
Then I took the June ‘09.
Then I took the Octover ‘09
All three of these scores had these scores in CR
respectively: 600,600,610.
Knowing that they want to see improvement each test,
would it be against my chances to take another test
to compensate for the previous scores?
my other scores are very good: 800 in math and 770 in writing.
It’s just that I need to get my CR score a little bit up
so it would be my fourth SAT on December.
I’m afraid the fourth test might look bad,
as everyone around me (including college board)
is imposing the idea that taking SAT four times is
ABSOLUTELY DETRIMENTAL. I’m hoping that it would not
hurt my chances.
November 14th, 2009 at 8:38 am
Dear Karl, My son’s dream since he was younger was to attend columbia. He worked hard through high school to make it a reality. His gpa is a 4.3 and as an IB student the past two years he has a 5.7 out of a possible 6.0..His in the top 5% of his class, plays two musical instruments trumpet and piano and has tons of awards commendations community service etc. Unfortunately every time he went to take the act or sat he would get aniety attacks and couldnt take it. That is until time was running out and he forced himself to go. His sat score was a 710 math 670 read and a 690 writing total 2070 His act was a 31. The two sat subject tests haven’t come back yet. He was extremely upset with his scores as he was hoping to score in the 2200’s. He has told us theres no sense in his applying now with those scores. He will be the first in our family to attend college so we really don’t know how to advise him
November 15th, 2009 at 1:45 am
Karl,
Thank you for your response. Your response indeed helped me. But, I still want to try to apply to
NYU because our school has very good relationship with NYU and many people go there somewhat similar to my scores.. Although it’s very low. I am also going to take SAT 1 on Decemeber again for sure and for January, I will take SAT II on Math II C depends on how I perform on December really…
Also, I have did internship at korean hospital where I did stem cell research and for last sumemr went to Cambodia for missionary trip and I was a translator there. And also I am doing Bank Internship where I get paid $20 per hour, acting as an accountant. Anyway, I am just giving these internships lists in order to show that I am really interested in math and science. Anyway, I will try my best who knows right? Also, do you think Carnegie Mellon University, Emory (I know it’s very competitive but still wants to try) , Michigan University, Virginia Tech, Case Western Reserved University (which I already sent for my application as a safety/probable school). Also other than bucknell and Colgate, is there other great schools that you can recommand me? Since I am a international student, I think going into a named school is the best choice (obviously hard… for sure) since most of people at my country wouldn’t recognize the university’s/college’s name if they are not included in “named” school. By the way, my grandparents are paying the tuition for me and they would be much more happier If I can go to good school and pay high tuition rather go to a standard school where my grandparents pay low tuition.
Sorry for asking so personal question, but I should be done with my application but at the same time, I am fraustrating so… please help me.
Also, for my E.C. I have been captain for Varsity Basketball, Soccer and was a Coxswain in Crew. In all these sports, I have received 2 MIP and 1 mvp. I really want to go to the schools that I listen in above. How can I do to make them appeal to me? I think my E.C. is strong sice I have done three paid jobs, more than five sports awards, like MIP, MVP and Headmaster LIsts, Deans Lists, Writing Award, Math Award… And in a scholars program. I know my SAT should be at least 2100 in order to go to colleges I have listen in above but what other things shall I do to make them appeal to me?
Any advice? I want to be major in science and math
Thank you
Look forward hearing from you soon.
Thank you
November 15th, 2009 at 1:42 pm
Dear karl,
Would a pharmacy school at Rutgers or or any other college
accept a student with a GPA of 3.5? (I know it’s pretty low)
but I live in New Jersey and I have a decent SAT score which is 2240.
Do I have any chance?
Also, I heard many people take the ACT and SAT 2 which probably looks
good on a college application.
Is it alright if a I only take the SAT and subject tests or would
I have to take the others so it looks better when applying to pharmacy colleges?
Thank you
November 17th, 2009 at 8:29 am
Jae Mln,
Your extracurricular activities are, indeed, impressive. I’m not sure there is much more you could have done. You are clearly a very active person; the kind of person universities want.
You are right; Emory and Carnegie Mellon are very difficult schools to get into. You may need to boost your SAT scores to have a legitimate shot at either of these schools.
You should also consider Cornell University. It is an Ivy League school, but probably not as hard to get into as Emory or Carnegie Mellon.
Good luck.
November 17th, 2009 at 8:33 am
Jen,
You can certainly get into an Ivy League school with an SAT score below 1850. In order to do so, however, you would have to be recruited by one or more of the schools. In other words, your extracurricular accomplishments would have to be so extraordinary, that the school (or one of its coaches, for example) would actively recruit you.
My understanding is that many CA schools have rejected Score Choice. Thus, all of your SAT scores need to be reported. That being said, schools will generally focus on your highest overall combination.
Good luck.
November 17th, 2009 at 8:39 am
Paul,
I know a girl who took the SAT six times and then got into Dartmouth. You should definitely take the SAT again in December, IF YOU THINK YOU CAN ACTUALLY DO BETTER ON THE CR SECTION. In other words, don’t bother taking it again if you haven’t prepared in a way that will truly improve your chaces of doing significantly better. I hope this advice helps. Good luck.
November 17th, 2009 at 8:45 am
Bill,
First, your son’s scores are not bad. Please make sure he knows this. His academic accomplishments are commendable. The fact that he will be the first in your family to attend college leads me to believe that he’s got an interesting story to tell. If he can convey his uniqueness in his application, he still has a shot at school like Columbia, which is looking for a diverse student body.
I would advise him not to lose hope. While his chances are not overwhelmingly good, he does have a chance and I think he owes it to himself to apply.
Good luck.
November 17th, 2009 at 8:49 am
Sara,
The combination of a 3.5 GPA and a 2240 SAT is very impressive actually. I think Rutgers would be lucky to have you as a student. You should definitely apply.
In the meantime, you should take two SAT subject tests. Don’t bother with the ACT. Your SAT score is high enough. Good luck.
November 20th, 2009 at 6:41 pm
Hey Karl, thanks again for the heads up about Georgia Tech. I just found out today that I got accepted!
November 21st, 2009 at 9:04 am
Awesome, Quoc-Huy. Thanks for the update. I am very happy for you. Keep up the good work.
November 26th, 2009 at 4:17 am
Hi Karl,
I am a high school senior currently enrolled at a Private School in the United Arab Emirates.
I gave the SAT 1 last May and did not get such a great score
(M-680, CR-680, W-680 – yes I got the same score on all three sections which is weird as I am much better at math than at reading or writing). However, I owe my low scores to the fact that I just did not bother studying hard enough – I practised by taking 5 tests in the one month before the exam. I have given the Physics subject test on which I got a 730 and will give the Math Level 2 in December. I have also given the TOEFL iBT and gotten a score of 118.
My high school follows the CBSE(India) system and I performed very well in the Standard X AISSE Examination – I got a 95.8%, which was third highest in the UAE.
I also have excellent extracurriculars – Round Square, Best Buddies, Student Council, Atheletics….)
Do you think that I have a chance at Cornell or UPenn? I really want to get into these schools but my SAT 1 scores are at the lower end of the spectrum.
Another stumbling block is that my parents cannot contribute more than $20000 per year towards my education so I will be applying for aid.
Since I am a Permanent Resident of Canada, I shouldn’t have a problem with Upenn as they give need-blind aid to Canadian citizens and residents.
But I will be placed in a highly competitive international pool at Cornell.
Do you think I should give the SAT 1 again in January? I will be writing my pre-boards that month (for the actual AISSCE Board Exam in March) so it might be difficult for me to focus entirely on the SAT.
What should I do?
November 26th, 2009 at 4:20 pm
Charu,
You have a much better chance at Cornell than at UPENN. Cornell is a notch below UPENN when it comes to selectivity. I definitely think you should take the SAT again in January. If you can get all of your scores into the 700’s, it would make a huge difference. You are not far off. Please give it your best efforts.
December 6th, 2009 at 1:39 pm
I’m confused. What is a perfect score on the SAT? My son, who has awakened late to the importance of the SAT, believes that it is 1600. He also has been led to believe that there are only two areas that count, math and reading. Is this true? While my son’s GPA is >4.25 in a private school his SAT last spring was only 1210 (out of 1600 he thinks). He never studied for the SAT because he was told it didn’t matter. He has taken it three times. The third time just yesterday. I saw on one site that he could cancel a score within 5 days of the test. Should we cancel this recent test and have him take a formal course to improve his scores? Or should we wait and see? If so, how do we cancel? What’s a really effective SAT course he can take between now and January?
My son seems to be bright but has poor self esteem for many reasons. If he could do better I think it would encourage him but I do not want to give him false hopes.
Thanks
December 7th, 2009 at 8:33 am
Roberta,
A perfect score on the SAT is now 2400. Each of the three sections–Math, Critical Reading, and Writing–is worth 800.
If your son does not feel like the test went well, you may want to seriously consider simply canceling the scores. If he thinks he did okay, you should wait for the scores. They might give you a sense for where he needs to focus his study efforts.
By the way, a student with a 4.25 GPA should be able to crush the SAT. If your son prepares in the right environment, his scores will soar. He is clearly a good learner.
You may want to consider an ePrep course. We have had success with all kinds of learners.
Good luck.
December 7th, 2009 at 10:40 pm
Hi Karl,
I would like to know what are good SAT I scores for Ivy league
like Columbia, and also for colleges that give need blind
help to international students.(middlebury, dartmouth)
I’m now in my senior year n am goin to test in January.
Is it too late to test in Jan of senior year?
My Sat subject tests are BioE-760, Chinese-720 GPA 3.9 above
I’m worried about submitting my chinese score(i’m not native
chinese)but since colleges require 2 subjects, i have to.
Pls advice, I’d really appreciate it.
P.s wat unis arent that competitive but do help foreigners?
I’d probably be only able to afford to contribute $5000
December 7th, 2009 at 10:45 pm
Oops, i forgot an imp question.
I registered for ACT in Feb, but i thought it’ll be too late
Do you think i should take the test and submit those scores?
Or do u think i’d stand a better chance if i just stick to
takin SAT reasoning in Jan?
Or should i do both and send both scores?
Do colleges accept FEB ACT scores? But sending the scores will
be costly i guess. Wat’s ur say on this case?
Thx again!
December 10th, 2009 at 11:15 am
Miranda,
I just wanted to let you know that I did read your comments. I want to check with Don Betterton before giving you and advice on which colleges have aid for international students. Please check back tomorrow for my response.
December 11th, 2009 at 6:14 pm
Miranda,
A good score for an Ivy is 2200. As far as I know, only a handful of schools offer financial aid to international students and admit international students on a need-blind basis: Princeton, Harvard, Yale, MIT, and Williams.
I would submit the Chinese subject test. The score is high enough.
I will have to check to see whether colleges consider Feb ACT scores. (I know that Jan SAT scores are fine.)
Check back on Monday.
December 12th, 2009 at 8:09 am
Hi Karl,
Thanks for the info on those that offer need blind help.
Actually, i alrdy knew of these colleges as they r reputed
for this policy;however, they are competitive to the extreme.
Thus i wanted to know safety schools that do help int students
or are not expensive.
My parents earn below 10000 per year. So i’d only be able to
afford 5000. Furthermore, the registration process requires
heavy spending, hence i want to apply to good non-com schs
and be less tensed about acceptance.
Thank you very much!
P.s I am relieved about the chinese SAT score: Does this mean the
colleges wont rly look at percentiles?(the Chinese percentile)
December 12th, 2009 at 8:13 am
Oops, i forgot another imp question: When is the deadline
to submit TOEFL scores? I will be taking it on Jan 2nd week so
the scores won’t arrive til FEB 1st week.
Thanks once agn, n sry for the constant questions
Your advice is priceless!
December 13th, 2009 at 2:59 pm
Miranda,
I honestly don’t know of any American colleges or universities that price tuition in the $5,000 to $10,000 range. You should immediately do a web search on scholarships. Apply for any and all scholarships you think you have even a remote chance of winning.
You should also consider working for a year or two before college. It is not an uncommon practice and it will allow you to save up some money while you continue your academic pursuits independently.
I will do a little research on tuition and get back to you.
December 22nd, 2009 at 11:41 am
I have a question.
I am a senior and I just got my December SAT I score, which was 2120 (This score is accumulated by best sections)
But, I still and stressed because I want to have in middle range of 2200
Reading: 690
Writing: 760
Math: 670
I also have GPA: 91/100 (unweighted) 98/100 (Weighted)
Class Rank: 5/64
I have taken 6 Honors courses so far (I haven’t taken any AP courses because my school don’t offer any of Ap course..
SAT II taken: USH (720) , Math II C(680)
I have received four sports Awards, they are mostly MVP and MIP
Soccer, Basketball, Crew, and Sportmanship (given to only one student at school)
I have served more than 200 community hours
Also, I think both my reccomandations and essays are great
I want to major in chemistry and I have applied to UVA, Carnegie Mellon, NYU, Cornell, U Michigan, Case Western, and Emory (these are my top rich schools)
And don’t worry, I also have applied some safety schools as well
What do you think of percentile of me getting in?
For Cornell, I have applied to two schools (College of Arts and Sciences) & (CALS)
For other schools, I have applied as College of Arts and Sciences
I really want to go these school especially Cornell, Emory, or NYU
Please response in very honest way (this will be much more helpful)
Thank you
December 22nd, 2009 at 2:11 pm
Hi there =)
I’m a Junior right now and I just got my SAT scores today (Critical Reading 720, Math 690, and Writing 710 [w/ a 12 on my essay]. I am wondering if I should retake it. I understand that colleges
look at your highest score but lets say I retake the test 2 more times and the next time I get a 2000 and the following time a 2050. Will these lower scores even be seen by colleges or will they
ONLY see your highest?
I’m also wondering at my shots at my ideal schools right now so here’s all my info:
-Name: Vivian C
-Gender: Female
-Ethnicity: Chinese
-At least want to go to: Georgetown University or UC Irvine
-Ideal Schools: UCLA, USC, Ivy Leagues, Cambridge, Oxford, University of Edinburgh, Seoul National University
-Majors: Biology, Chemistry… basically pre-med (It’d be great if you can explain a bit about majors cause truthfully I’m confused)
-SAT Scores:
-Reading: 720
-Math: 690
-Writing 710
-Essay 12
-GPA (unweighted): AWEFUL…3.0 this year so far (1st semester is not over yet, we still have finals), 3.3 average of 3 years, about 3.5 last 2 years
-Subject Tests Taken: World History (560) [I took world history as a summer course and took the test almost a year later, not a good choice]
-Subject Tests Planning to Take: Biology, Math II, Chemistry, Literature, and maybe Spanish (my spanish is horrible though, I’m not sure how I even made it to AP),
-APs Taken & Scores: AP Calc I (5) and AP European History (4)
-Classes: All classes excluding electives (and summer classes), have been Honors, AP, or IB classes
-Summer Classes: Computer System (B), World History (A), Physics (A)
-Elective Classes: HTML (A or B [can't recall]), SRC (A), Photoshop (A)
-School Programs I am in: IB, Tech Program, Link Crew (Captain, 1st year), Yearbook
-IB HL Classes (No scores yet): History, English, Biology
-IB SL Classes (No scores yet): Chemistry (we don’t have HL chem), Math, Spanish
-APs I am taking: AP Spanish, US History, Stats
-APs I am planning to take: AP Lit, AP Psych or AP Bio,
-Summer Plans (before Senior Year): Internship at UC Santa Cruz for about half-1 month, Civics/Econ course at school
-School Clubs I am in: Leo Club (planning to do all 4 years, obtained silver award sophmore year, aiming for gold this year and senior year and aiming for position), Anime Club (planning to run for
position), Living Green (tech manager), Calliope (tech manager).
-Outside of School: 3rd Degree Black Belt in Tae kwon do, Lvl 7 in piano (will not continue), and a volunteer at local church
-Summer Programs Attended: Lead America @ Georgetown
Now here is the real ego-bruiser:
I barely stack up to the other students at my school. My school is mostly asian and the students are all amazing. On average most students take 5+ APs, have high GPAs, are in sports, are club
officers for multiple clubs, are part of orchestra or band, and everything about myself if just very common here. Basically I am a mediocre form of everyone else at my school. With about 800 people
in my year, I am barely in the top half of my class GPA-wise.
Questions:
)
1) What do you think my shots for getting into the schools above?
2) What do I have to do and what scores should I aim for to have a better chance at those schools?
3) Is it necessary for me to apply to a community college as a backup?
4) Is it possible for colleges not to see my World History score?
5) What can I do to get colleges to look upon my GPA more…kindly?
6) What SAT score should be my main goal if I were to retake it (obviously a 2400 but something more realistic
Sorry for the long message. Thank you for your time.
~Vivian
December 24th, 2009 at 2:45 pm
Jae,
You should take the SAT again in January. The math is the section that provides the greatest hope for breaking 2200. If you practice well, you can definitely get the math into the 700.
While your grades are good, your extracurricular achievements/activities will not set you apart in the admission process. (I am sorry, but I am trying to be honest.)
Your top schools are really very difficult schools to get into. Remember, those schools get literally thousands of applications from incredibly accomplished and talented students every year. I think you have about a 50% chance of getting into each of them. This does not mean that you will likely be admitted by half of the top school on your list. It means that you have about a 50% at each one individually. You could get into them all or blanked by them all. Let’s hope for the best. I am glad you applied to a few “safety” schools.
Good luck. I hope you decide to give the SAT one more chance. I really think you can do it.
December 24th, 2009 at 3:10 pm
Vivan,
Thanks for all the info. SAT scores are important, but (unfortunately for you) GPA is much more important in the college admission process. Do you have a good excuse for the 3.0? If not, be honest about it on your applications.
Even with your high SAT scores, I think you have a slim chance at all of the schools that you listed. There are plenty of schools between the top tier and community college, however. You may want to apply to a few second tier schools just to cover your bases.
If you are interested in pre-med programs, you need to get your SAT math score into the 700s. Just practice a bit and you will get it done.
Because a lot of extremely talented Asian students apply to American universities, being Chinese will not help you much. It may acutally work against you. (Just trying to be honest.)
I don’t know much about pre-med programs. I am more of a test-prep expert than an admission guru.
All this being said, it sounds like you are living a full and rewarding life. Keep it up and you will find success no matter where you go to college.
By the way, many of the CA state schools have rejected the College Board’s score choice policy. This means that they require all of your SAT scores. Most other schools honor score choice and allow applicants to send in there scores from their best test date only.
I hope I answered most of your questions. Good luck.
December 24th, 2009 at 3:35 pm
First of all, I think this is an incredibly informative and interesting website. You’ve done a really great job answering questions and alleviating some concerns. I’m hoping that you will have the time to reply to some of my concerns as well. Anyway, I’m a junior in highschool. My school happens to have a very competitive environment; in fact, it’s the top public school in California and #36 in the nation. As for class rank and GPA, it’s definitely an obstacle partly because of the overload of high-perfoming peers and high-demand curriculum. Nonetheless, I like to think of myself as very motivated and hard-headed when it comes to academics. My highschool doesn’t count any sophomore Honors as weighted so I receieved a 3.8333 even though I took Honors English and Honors Geometry. As for my junior year, I am currently taking 4 weighted classes (Honors English, Honors Precalculus, AP Biology, and AP Statistics). My current GPA is a 4.0 un-weighted and 4.6667 weighted. If I keep this up then I presume that my overall soph-jr score is 4.25. Furthermore, I have taken the SAT twice and my highest score is 2250 (Math-770 CR-700 Writing-780). I’m definitely retaking it because I only prepared a week prior the testing date, and I am aiming for a 2300 or 2350. I also received 234 on my PSAT and have earned over 300 hours of community service. I am also currently participating in sports and music programs and seeking summer internships. I’m concerned over whether this will be enough for me to get into my dream schools (UC Berkeley, UCLA, UC San Deigo) as well as any Ivy Leagues and other privates. Also, do you have any suggestions for seeking internships or for whether I have completely forgotten any areas I should consider?
December 24th, 2009 at 5:36 pm
Thank you very much Karl =)
I understand that being chinese will probably worsen my chances =( And I do not have any good reason for my grades other than the fact that I joined more classes than I can handle and I don’t deal well with multiple tests on the same day. I will definitely take the SAT again though. Hopefully I can bring my grades up before the end of the semester. Will colleges give any consideration to my weighted score though? Other than that question I think that’s about it. Thanks again :]
December 29th, 2009 at 2:10 am
I have one quick question.
That is, I recently have notice that many colleges don’t see the writing section (as I have heard from my friends)
Is this true?
The school I am applyting to are:
Cornell U
Michigan U
Carnegie
Emory
UVA
NYU
Case Western
I have the highest grade on writing section
Writing:760
Math:670 (very low)
Reading:690
Is it true that colleges are likly to see more on Reading and Math than Writing?
December 30th, 2009 at 2:12 pm
Hey Karl, thank you for your help.
I have one last question,
if you took the SAT subject tests more than once for a
particular subject, is it better to send your highest or just
all of them?
Thanks very much!
January 12th, 2010 at 4:23 am
Hi! Karl! Thanks for your info.
Since English is my second language, I am really not good with the CR and Writing section. I do pretty well on my math section. I get like mid 400 ish. But I know I can do better than that. I am retaking my SAT on March, since I have to apply for the scholarship. My unweighted GPA is probably around 3.4. But I can bring that up, too. I am just so frustrated with my GPA and my SAT scores. My question is If I take SAT more than 4 times, I’ve heard that colleges just average the scores all together. Is it true? I am scared that they would. Because I will miserably low score whatsoever. Also do you have any suggestion how to study CR? I really need help with it. Thank you so much!
January 12th, 2010 at 11:27 pm
Hey Karl!
After reading a few of the other replies here I feel like a slacker haha.
So far I am a Junior and I have taken one SAT duing october and
I got 600 on reading 640 on writing and 680 on math.
the clubs I am currently in are
Spanish Club- vp
spanish honor society-vp
Green team
Key Club
Model UN- undersec. gen.
Asian Association- secretary
I am around the 13th percentile in my class of 290 people and
I currently I have a 3.99 GPA
I was dreaming of going into Princeton but now I am hoping
to get into UVA
Do you think I will have a chance to get into an ivy league school like
brown or princeton if I can get a higher SAT score? or should I just
plan on hoping for UVA?
thanks alot!
January 12th, 2010 at 11:44 pm
oh and also, since my school offers ap courses, I am currently in AP Bio, USHistory, and Psychology
but i have not taken the exams again. I was planning on taking 4-5 AP classes next year also
Do you recommend that I take as many AP classes as I can in my senior year?
thank you!
January 18th, 2010 at 1:27 pm
Olivia,
Sorry for the delay. I think you are on track to get into your top choices, and I don’t think there’s much else you can do. If you keep working hard, you will be well prepared for college at a highly selective school.
While internships always look good on applications, so do summer jobs that pay. Even opportunities like working at McDonald’s for a summer should not be ignored. Colleges value students who work, and summer jobs can offer life-changing experiences.
Keep up the good work.
Karl
January 18th, 2010 at 1:32 pm
Vivian,
College admission officers will absolutely consider weighted grades. Your grades are weighted because you are taking more difficult classes. This will certainly be an advantage for you in the admission process.
Karl
January 18th, 2010 at 1:46 pm
Jae,
A few years ago, the rumor was that colleges were ignoring the Writing section. That is not true any more. Many colleges are looking at writing scores individually and many are averaging writing scores with critical reading scores. Either way is good for you.
Karl
January 18th, 2010 at 1:49 pm
Diane,
Some colleges will ask you for all of your subject test scores. Send all scores to the ones that do. To the rest, simply send your highest. Good luck!
Sorry for the delay in responding.
Karl
January 18th, 2010 at 2:56 pm
Chelsea,
While some colleges may average scores, I have never heard of the practice. Most colleges will consider your highest scores only. I know plenty of students who got into awesome schools after take the SAT four or more times. Colleges do not frown upon high school student who are willing to continue trying, when faced with an academic challenge. Keep taking the SAT until you think you have reached your maximum potential.
As far as increasing your CR score goes, (1) keep building your vocabulary and (2) try this technique for the longer CR passages:
Read the first paragraph, and then answer the questions that refer specifically to the first paragraph. Then read the second paragraph and answer the questions tied to it. Do this until you have reached the end of the passage. Then go back and answer any questions that refer to the passage as a whole. This is a technique that works very well for many students.
Good Luck!
January 18th, 2010 at 3:04 pm
Rachel,
UVA is a great school. In many ways, UVA is as hard to get into (as an out-of-state student) as the Ivies. If you increase your SAT scores, you will certainly have a shot at UVA, Cornell, and Brown. You should take as many APs as you can handle senior year. I see that you participate in Spanish and Asian clubs, are you either Hispanic or Asian? Just wondering.
Good Luck!
January 18th, 2010 at 4:47 pm
I am Asian, and I was wondering if that would either help or decrease my chances of getting into the univeristy?
January 19th, 2010 at 8:07 am
Rachel,
At the most selective schools, it will probably decrease your chances a bit. Each year thousands of extremely talented students from Asia apply to American colleges and universities. What will help you, however, is the fact that you are attending an America high school. My advice at this point is to continue working hard. The admissions stuff will fall into place when the time comes.
January 25th, 2010 at 7:38 pm
Hi! I’m a international student currently enrolled in University of Southern California (fight on!).
However, I’m thinking about transferring to NYU Stern. My activities are fine but not that extremely
out standing. The only thing that I’m concern about is my SAT score is only 1940.Do you think I
should retake it to increase the probability to be admitted? Because I know that Stern is really
competitive! By the way, my current GPA is 3.85.
Thank you very much!
January 25th, 2010 at 10:20 pm
Diana,
Let me check with one of ePrep’s admission experts and get back to you tomorrow. Awesome GPA, by the way.
January 26th, 2010 at 1:12 pm
thank you!
January 26th, 2010 at 1:52 pm
Diane,
I just spoke to Don Betterton. He says it depends on what NYU requires transfer students to submit:
If they are only interested in your USC transcript and a faculty member recommendation, don’t bother taking the SAT again.
If they are interested in your high school transcript, you should probably take the SAT again with the hope of beating your current 1940. If you beat 1940, send it to NYU whether they ask for it or not. If you don’t beat 1940, don’t request that your new score be sent. (The College Board’s score choice policy now allows students to pick and choose.)
I hope this helps. Good luck.
January 27th, 2010 at 1:27 pm
Hey Karl, I just found this site. I think it’s wonderful that you actually take time to read our questions and answer them
Over the last 3 months I’ve taken an SAT course from a guy who was recommended to my mother by a woman at my church who currently teaches at Stuyvesant. I went and on the first day we (meaning me and..about 20 others) took a SAT test. The guy used to work for College Board and all these other places so he really knew his SATs and had connections (meaning he had actual copies of SATs, which he photocopied and put together to form a SAT test). Anyways, I had never taken an SAT or anything so I ended up with 1400 as my overall (CR-470, M-480, and W-440).
After 3 months (that’s how long the course was-every Saturday morning for 3 hours), he made us take another SAT to see if we improved or not. . I got these scores back yesterday and this time I got a 1700 (CR-550, M-600, and W-550).
Definitely not the best score ever but at least I improved my 300, right? Plus I never really took time to learn the vocab words he gave us or anything so yeah.. I didn’t really know the vocab and I didn’t get some of the math problems ..
So that’s the extent of my experience with SAT stuff. Hopefully I can do a heck of a lot better on the actual SAT when I take it. I’m planning on retaking his course sometime this year too..I really want to get to a good college, preferably Ivy League-which I need over 2000 to even be considered Ivy League material..What is the actual score that you need for Ivy League??
Anyways, I was wondering when is the best time to take the SATs? And, when are you actually qualified to take the SATs? I’m currently a freshman in high school (I just started this year and am halfway through-the first term just ended). Are freshman even allowed to take the SATs yet? What about sophomores?
Thanks for taking the time to read this and hopefully you can answer my questions
~Peggy
January 28th, 2010 at 2:02 pm
Peggy,
There is no particular SAT score that Ivy League schools require. Which applicants ultimately get admitted depends primarily on school performance, teacher recommedations, and extracurricular talents and accomplishments. I know of students in the 1800-1900 range who were admitted by Ivy League schools and students in the 2300-2400 range who were rejected.
While you can take the SAT anytime you want, I wouldn’t worry about taking one until junior year.
Good luck.
January 31st, 2010 at 9:27 am
Hi, I am currently in 11th grade in High School. My GPA is 3.7,
weighted. I took two APs (History and Stats as a sophomore
and got a 4 and 5). Right now I am taking 3 APs-
Eng, Math, Psych. My SAT scores (practice tests) are about
2100– math=740, CR=650, Writing=710. I have taken many honor
level classes–Bio, Chem, math courses
I have been productive over summer–internships and community
service. I am treasurer of a service club, and I’m in
math/science club, mun, dance, swimming.
What are my chances of getting into an ivy league?
and chances at duke, UNC, tufts etc?
also how important are subject tests?
January 31st, 2010 at 3:44 pm
Rachel,
I will check with one of ePrep’s admission experts and post a reply tomorrow. Thanks for being patient.
February 1st, 2010 at 3:47 pm
Rachel,
With the very little I know about you and your background, I would say you have a slim chance at the Ivies and Duke. I would say you have about a 40% chance at Tufts and the same at UNC, if you are a North Carolina resident. If you’re not a NC resident, your chances will decrease at UNC.
Now, all of what I just wrote is meaningless, if you are a nationally recognized swimmer or dancer, for example, or a minority applicant. I suggest applying to a couple of “reach” schools, a couple of “safeties,” and a few that are in the same league, or slightly below, Tufts.
SAT subjects tests are only important if the schools you apply to require them. I would do a little research now. If you have to take subject tests, June is the best time to take them.
I hope this helps.
February 2nd, 2010 at 9:25 am
Hi Karl
Thanks for the reply
What would be some examples of safeties? (the ones in the same
“league”)(Based on statistics [gpa/sat]
alone) I am not nationally recognized or I haven’t started
a club or I’m not a minority applicant etc.
Also, do most colleges only look at the CR+MATH SAT combined?
or do they also look at the writing section? I’ve heard that
the 1600 score is more important than the 2400 score?
Thank you so much for your help!
Rachel
February 5th, 2010 at 10:13 am
Rachel,
I just talked to Don again. He suggested schools like:
Lafayette
Wake Forest
George Washington
Gettysburg
Villanova
Suracuse
Boston University
Carnegie Melon
February 11th, 2010 at 9:00 am
Greetings Sir,
I got 2250 on my SAT-1. This was my first test and I am not sure
whether I should take the test again. I had done about 32
practice tests and got above 2300 in half of them.I request you
to also tell me whether this SAT score is good enough
to get into Princeton.
I am an international student,high school junior,
have done IGCSEs-did really really well in those and am now doing the IB
diploma programme.
February 11th, 2010 at 9:02 am
Forgot to say thank you.
Thank You so much for your help sir!
February 11th, 2010 at 9:59 pm
Saumya,
2250 is definitely high enough to get into Princeton. Whether you ultimately get accepted is going to depend on your GPA, the difficulty level of the courses you have taken, your extracurricular accomplishments, and what country you are from.
All this being said, if you really think you can score higher on the SAT, you should take it again. Scoring higher will only improve your chances.
I hope this helps.
February 12th, 2010 at 4:22 am
Thank you Sir! I think I’ll sit for the test again afterall.
It is really quite nice of you to find out time to answer our questions here.
Sir, my question is a personal one. I have seen that you are
a graduate from law school. I myself want to become a lawyer but come back to India and practise law. The glitch is that few US law degrees are recognized here and the judicial system is starkly different too. So I cannot apply for pre-law studies in the US. That said, I still want to acquire
an education from the best places (Princeton):-)
What kind of majors are suitable for me at undergrad. level that will enable me to continue my grad. in law in UK or here in India? I was thinking of
International Relations or sth broad like Economics maybe?
February 12th, 2010 at 7:17 pm
Hi there Karl!
I was wondering if it is okay to take the SAT after graduating high school? I graduated in June 2009 as salutatorian of my class and I took on this great opportunity to pursue my post secondary education in Zurich, Switzerland. I’m half American and half Swiss. I was barely through my first semester at the University of Zurich when I found out my mother had a terminal cancer back here in the States. I moved back to the States about a month ago or so, and being the only child, I’ve decided to stay here with my family. I’ve been looking into colleges here in California, and I know the SAT or ACT is a must. I would like to take the SAT though. Would it be okay for me to take the SAT for the first time now, and if needed, retake it as the high school graduate that I am? Do you think colleges will look down at my scores considering the fact that it’s been a couple of months since I graduated from high school? I hope to hear back from you. Thank you
February 13th, 2010 at 10:19 am
Saumya,
Feel free to study whatever you want as an undergraduate. I majored in Civil Engineering and wound up in a law school class at UPENN with students who had majored in business, economics, mathematics, English, history, public relations . . . you name it.
By the way, two of my roommates from college were from Bangalore!
February 13th, 2010 at 10:24 am
Sebastian,
Sorry to hear about your mother’s health issues. Moving back from Zurich to be at home is a choice you will never regret.
You can take the SAT whenever you want . . . before, during, or after high school. Just prepare yourself well, then go and crush the test. Good luck.
By the way, one of my childhood and college friends works for FIFA in Zurich. His job entails helping South Africa prepare for the World Cup this summer.
February 13th, 2010 at 9:14 pm
Karl,
I really appreciate the effort and time you put into answering all the questions in here. Thank you very much! I have already started to prepare myself for this test. It must be exciting to work for FIFA, thumbs up for your friend. I’ve added this website to my favorites, if I have any further questions, I’ll ask you for sure. Keep up the good work!
February 14th, 2010 at 12:07 am
Thanks a ton for the advice Karl! Like Sebastian, this site
definitely tops my list of favorites too!
P.S- Hope your liked your roomies
February 15th, 2010 at 4:34 pm
hi karl,
i took the SAT test in january
Critical Reading 330
Math 350
Writing 320
im taking again in 3 months (june) because obviously im not
happy with the results. i hope its good enough to get into
University of Massachusetts Boston?
February 15th, 2010 at 6:15 pm
Hi Karl,
You are great to take the time to answer the concerns of students!
I’m an African American male, a junior in private Christian school
I have a Career GPA of 4.2 and a Career weight of 18.5 – I have been in top 5 % of class
I’m Chaplin in the National Honor Society – Selected to go on mission’s trip for my spring break this year
I’ve been taken honors classes, 10th grade – Biology HN, Algebra 11 HN, English HN and 11th grade Math Analysis HN, US History HN, English Lit HN
Played high school football for 3 years and baseball for 2 years
I have over 500 hours of community service with Help the Homeless and Cedars Youth Leadership Program,
I’ve never really tested great and that showed when I took the SAT in January my scores were – Critical Reading 490 -Math 510 – Writing 530 – Multiple Choice 52 and Essay 8 – it appears I have a lot of work to do, I took a SAT prep class 1st semester it didn’t help much
I am interested in majoring Technology engineering; with hopes of going to PENN State of Maryland University
Please tell me what I should do, classes to take… and if you can provide me with other engineering schools that might be a good fit that would be great
Thanks and God bless you for your help!
February 15th, 2010 at 7:28 pm
FYI. In regard to referrals, I’m from Wash, DC and want to attend a college on the east coast.
February 19th, 2010 at 12:33 pm
Hi Karl,
I have read your answers from top to bottom. May God bless you for all the efforts you take to answer our questions!
1. I recently had a chat with my friend’s dad and he was saying that there are more chances of getting accepted for less common courses at the Ivies, as long as they fit in with your subjects also. Can you please tell me if this is true?
2. Also, does it sound as if you are confused and clueless if you say you are an undecided major on your application form? Is it better/ safer to apply for specific courses that ‘you may-want-to-consider’?
3. I would also be really grateful if you could tell me whether it is ‘safer’ to apply for liberal arts or engineering courses in the following universities-:
Princeton
Harvard
Yale
Columbia
Stanford
UPenn
MIT
Caltech
Williams
I obviously know that Princeton and MIT are more renowned for their sciences and Harvard, Yale, Columbia for liberal arts.
Sorry for inundating you with questions. Thanks in advance.
February 19th, 2010 at 2:37 pm
Clark,
As far as high school classes go, just continue taking the most rigorous courses your high school offers, especially in math and science. Colleges cannot expect you to take classes that your school does not offer, but they will expect you to challenge yourself . . . and succeed.
Georgia Tech and Lehigh University are two good engineering schools that come to mind. If you want, I will ask Don Betterton for a few others.
Increasing your SAT scores is going to be critical. You should strongly consider an ePrep course.
February 19th, 2010 at 5:26 pm
I will look into taking eprep or a local class but with my parents already paying tuition I’m not sure they are able to pay anything more. I think I
February 19th, 2010 at 5:28 pm
I will look into taking a SAT class but with my parents already paying tuition I’m not sure they are able to pay anything more. I think I’d better start doing the practice questions available online to.
Yes, please ask Don Betterton for a few other referrals. I really am interested in Penn State do you think it’s out of the question or what should I do to improve my chances of getting accepted there? What about Maryland U, since I live n Maryland tuition cost would be less? Thank again for you time, I really appreciate it!
February 19th, 2010 at 5:31 pm
Clark,
I will talk to Don on your behalf. No worries. If you search ePrep’s blog site, you’ll find a video on how to prepare for the SAT on a $25 budget. It worked for me, so I’m sure it can work for you. Good luck. I will post Don’s thoughts soon.
February 19th, 2010 at 10:35 pm
HI Karl –
I took PSAT’s as a sophmore and scored above average 1400’s. As a Junior, i suffered
an injury causing head trauma which resulted in problems with my cognitive functions and memory.
I scored very low on my SAT’s and I am concerned about getting into colleges. I plan on
getting a tudor and doing anything I can to improve, however, I am not sure how much I can improve
based on my injury. What options do I have to get into a good college? I maintain a 3.8 GPA and are in the top 10% of my class, but without good SAT scores how do I get into the schools
I want to. I am told a college essay can tell my story and explain the situation,
however, I am not sure if that will be enough or taken seriously by college admin directors.
Any advice would be appreciated. thanks.
February 21st, 2010 at 2:36 pm
I’m in 7th grade and I am registered to take the SAT in May, do you think i should take it again in 8th grade or wait for high school to take it again?
February 22nd, 2010 at 8:11 am
Need Help,
1. It is true. Colleges sometimes have a little trouble finding students who may want to pursue less popular majors. They also struggle to maintain an even male/female ratio in majors that are traditionally male dominated, like engineering.
2. Colleges do not expect 18-year-olds to know what their college majors will be. Thus, it’s perfectly acceptable to mark “undecided” on your applications.
3. The answer to this one changes year-to-year, so I can’t really say. Back in 1986, I applied to Princeton liberal arts and Columbia engineering. I was accepted by Princeton and rejected by Columbia. Who would have guessed? I ultimately majored in Civil Engineering at Princeton.
I hope this helps. Good luck.
February 22nd, 2010 at 8:18 am
Karl,
The essay portion of the application is abosolutely the place to tell your story. I think most colleges will value your perseverence and downplay your mediocre SAT scores. That’s not to say that you should give up on trying to increase your scores.
Based on what you’ve told me, I think any college would be lucky to have you as a member of its student body. Good luck.
February 22nd, 2010 at 8:19 am
A.S.,
After the 7th grade SAT, I think you should wait until junior year to take the test again.
Good luck.
February 22nd, 2010 at 1:37 pm
Thanks Karl!
February 23rd, 2010 at 9:56 pm
im a senior i have always been scared about taking the sat because i have to pay but i dont want my parents to freak out i was nervous on the test day anyways my grade on my transcript is 75 hopefully it would go higher i got 290 on my math, 310 , 410 im writting wat college can i get into with this do i still have a chance to take the sat or it’s too late when is the last time i can take it? and im want to start school in the fall
February 25th, 2010 at 8:46 am
Clark,
Don thinks that, if you get your SAT scores into the 600s, you will have a good shot at the following schools:
Cornell
RPI
Lehigh
Bucknell
Lafayette
Georgia Tech
You better get cracking on the SAT stuff. Good luck.
February 25th, 2010 at 8:48 am
Janet,
January was the last SAT that will count for regular admission. Thus, you are stuck with your scores for now. I suggest that you apply to one or more of your local community colleges. Good luck.
February 26th, 2010 at 3:26 am
Karl,
I’m a high school sophomore with a 4.0 GPA. Last year, I took the SAT and got a score of 2250. I took the PSAT this year and got 235. I’ll probably take 9 AP courses (2 this year, 4 next year, 3 senior year). My extracurriculars aren’t stellar but I’ve been on student government since freshman year, and I’ve been in Math Club. Judging based on this, do I stand a good chance at getting into Stanford, Columbia, etc.? Do my extracurriculars need improving?
Thanks so much,
Grant
February 26th, 2010 at 2:35 pm
Grant,
Your GPA and SAT scores are in line with students admitted to schools like Stanford and Columbia. You are right, however, to suspect that extracurricular activities will make a difference. You should focus on one or two activities that you really enjoy. It doesn’t really matter what they are. Colleges definitely seek out students who understand what dedication and commitment are all about. (Don’t rule out an after-school job as an activity. You’d be surprised at the number of students who have never earned a paycheck before college.)
I hope this helps. Please do not hesitate to post follow-up questions or comments.
February 27th, 2010 at 5:33 pm
I’m one of those students who just can’t take standardized tests I just recently took my sat and got a 510 M , 560 W(10 on essay), and 560 CR total of 1630. I’m taking two Aps right now Ap Lit and Ap Environmental Science, right now I have a 3.8 gpa unweighted and 4.0 gpa weighted. Also I’m trying to get into school with soccer, but just in case can I still get into a good school even though I have a low sat score? Any suggestions?
February 28th, 2010 at 11:05 am
Nicole,
I think you need to get your math and writing scores into the low 600’s. Doing so will allow you to break 1800, even if the CR does not change. If and when you break 1800, you’ll get into a bunch of good schools, especially if you’re recruited for soccer. You should seriously consider an ePrep course.
My niece is a sophomore soccer player at UNC, by the way. She’s already won two national championships. I’m proud . . . and jealous.
I hope my advice helps.
March 2nd, 2010 at 7:35 pm
I missed the registration for the march SAT’s and now im forced
to either take them in May and June. I wanted take the SAT’s
twice before my senior year, but i heard that it is not good to
take the SAT’s to close together. Is that true?
March 3rd, 2010 at 8:08 am
Tim,
If you want the take the test in March, just register as a “walk-on.” Every test center is shipped between 5 and 20 extra test booklets for students who register the morning of the test. All you need is a school ID (or driver’s license) and a check. (I’m not sure what the late fee is, but it’s reasonable for sure.)
You may want to call the school where you want to take the test and ask what time walk-ons are expected to arrive. (It’s usually about 15 minutes before everyone else.) Walk-on booklets are distributed on a first-come-first-served basis, so don’t be late.
If you decide not to walk-on in March, there’s no downside to taking the test in May and June.
Good luck. I hope my advice helps.
March 8th, 2010 at 6:02 pm
Hello.
I’m a junior in high school and I’m going to take SAT this Saturday.
I’m planning to take SAT over five times and people told me that Some college won’t accept me if I take it too much.
Is that true?
March 8th, 2010 at 6:06 pm
Also my sophomore grade was really terrible but my junior grades has been so much improved. I used to have like many B’s but now I have Almost high A’s.
still, do you think college will look bad on my transcription?
March 8th, 2010 at 8:07 pm
I am a high school Junior and i am very interested in Civil Engineering. I saw that this was your major and i was wondering how important the school that I attend is in finding a job afterwards? I am in the top 25% of my class with a 3.4 GPA. I scored a 670 on the math but can hit 700 my second time. Any advice on college would help.
Thanks
March 9th, 2010 at 8:09 am
Seiyoung Lee,
You can take the SAT as many times as you want, and colleges will consider your best combination only. Furthermore, the College Board’s new Score Choice policy will allow you to send colleges the scores from your best test dates. Because this will be 3 at a maximum, taking the test more than 3 or 5 times is not an issue at all.
With regard to your grades, colleges like to see an upward trend in grades. Thus, an improvement from sophomore year to junior year is good. If you continue to improve, you will be fine when it comes to admissions. Keep up the good work.
March 9th, 2010 at 8:16 am
Corey,
I don’t think the school you attend is important at all. Your college grades and summer work experiences will make the biggest difference in landing your first job. After your first job, nothing you did, or didn’t do, in college will make a difference. I have never been asked for a copy of my college transcript. Good luck. Civil Engineering is a demanding, but rewarding, major. I think you will like it a lot.
March 14th, 2010 at 1:59 am
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